A few small tweaks here and there to your diet will help you finally feel that burst of energy you've been craving for!
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on August 20, 2021. It has since been updated.
The pandemic has forced almost all of us into spending our time at home, most often in our own company. Since this is something that we aren't used to, it is only but natural for us to feel like our energy is draining out much faster than before. Yes, burnout is a real thing, but feeling constantly fatigued could also probably be because we've been stuffing ourselves with junk food, to make ourselves feel better about being stuck inside.
Here's the thing, your body runs on the food you feed it. Instead of staying in a slump, the best way to make sure you feel like your normal, energetic self, is by making sure that you feed yourself food that will give you that burst of energy we've all been looking for during these tough times. Here are some foods that you need to include in your diet to make sure you stay active all the time, according to Healthline.
Every season, there are different varieties of fruits and vegetables available in the market. According to Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, a "diet rich in vegetables and fruits can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, prevent some types of cancer, lower risk of eye and digestive problems, and have a positive effect upon blood sugar," thus keeping your appetite in check.
It is okay to include caffeine in your diet, but make sure not to overdo it. Yes, it does have some health benefits, and it is known to provide you with a short-term boost of energy, but it doesn't help you in the long run. Make sure your coffee cups are balanced with nutritious meals. Also, choose unsweetened black coffee or tea for your caffeine fix, as other beverages might be filled with refined sugar, and that's something you should stay away from.
Meats that are lean in nature, like chicken, turkey, and fish, still provide quality protein but contain less saturated fat. Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and tuna, can add beneficial heart-healthy fats that are good for your system. According to the Mayo Clinic, even red meat can be lean, depending on the cut you choose. It adds value to your diet and helps with your overall health.
As tasty and appealing as they may be, refined carbs are your enemy, but there are replacements to it, and you can find them in whole grains and complex carbs. This will ensure your body gets the energy it needs while burning off that unwanted fat.
Nuts and seeds are packed with power, despite their small size. They are full of energy and can help you beat both fatigue and hunger in one shot. A handful of mixed nuts, like cashews, almonds, walnuts, and seeds like sunflower and pumpkin seeds can make a huge difference to your day, especially if you're looking for that sudden spurt in energy.
One of the most ignored items in the world, the water is a superfood. Which is why the fact that your body is mostly comprised of water comes as no surprise. According to Mayo Health System, "It’s essential to keeping your body functioning properly and feeling healthy. Nearly all of your body’s major systems depend on water to function and survive." Switch out your carbonated and sugary drinks for water, and see the difference yourself in a few days.
Sometimes, we might not include all the veggies and fruits that our body needs in our diet. It could be because of our preferences or because of availability, but to make sure our body receives all the nutrients and minerals it needs, it is best to take some vitamin supplements to help. But before you do, make sure you consult a doctor before, so you don't harm your system in any way.
Now that you know what has to be done to get rid of that fatigue feeling, what's stopping you?
References:
https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/foods-that-beat-fatigue#unprocessed-foods
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/vegetables-and-fruits/
Cover Image Source (Representative): Getty Images | ljubaphoto
