If you're feeling low on energy then there are some power foods for a more super-human you that can help you feel more energised and ready to take on the world. Whilst feeling energised will depend on factors other than food, like a good night's sleep, keeping hydrated and being active, there are some foods you can incorporate into your daily diet to help you feel more energised and that are perfect to keep by your desk to give you that mid-morning and mid-afternoon energy boost. Here are my favourite power foods that make me feel like a caped crusader, well, kind of.
1 Almonds
Almonds are amazing and one of my favourite power foods. They help maintain a healthy heart as they're cholesterol free and are high in calcium, magnesium and vitamin E to support the brain. They are also reported to be great for aiding weight loss as they help regulate blood sugar levels. How many more excuses do you need?! I'm also a fan of almond butter, which I often combine with banana chunks for the perfect pre-workout snack.
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2 Apricots
Apricots are one of my favourite fruits and they have so many health benefits. They help promote healthy eyes and clear skin and are low in calories and high in fibre. What more could you ask for?! If you're a fan of the dried variety, as I am, make sure you buy the ones without sulphites.
3 Brazil Nuts
Although I'm a fan of all nuts (stop giggling), Brazil nuts are my favourite. They're rich in the mineral selenium, which is important for maintaining a healthy immune system, and they also contain phosphorous and magnesium for bone health. A super-nut if ever I saw one.
4 Cashew Nuts
I love cooking stir fries with cashew nuts and there's a good reason to incorporate them into your diet. They're great for the heart and are rich in vitamins and minerals which support your bones and joints. Their nutrient content means they're great for healthy skin too. For some tips on how to cook with this fabulous nut, see Heather Williams' fabulous article on AWS about delicious cashew recipes that will make your mouth water. (I'm munching on a coconut cashew bonbon as I type!)
5 Figs
Figs are fabulous. They are a brilliant source of calcium and iron and are full of fibre, meaning they will help you feel fuller and are good for digestion. Their calcium content means they're great for bone health and they're a fabulous food if you have high blood pressure, so fill up on figs!
6 Linseed (Flax Seed)
I love sprinkling linseed onto my cereal. They're a source of lignans, which help support women's health, and are also full of omega 3 and 6. They are rich in Lecithin, which aids digestion and helps metabolise fat. And whilst you wouldn't really snack on them as such, you can sprinkle them onto your salad or yoghurt at work for a lunch nutrition boost you can be proud of!
7 Prunes
Prunes are great to snack on and are good for overall health. They're a rich source of potassium, which is essential to enable the cells, nerves and muscles of the body to function properly. They're also a useful source of fibre and iron. They maintain bowel regularity (so I wouldn't go crazy with them) and ensure healthy digestion.
8 Pumpkin Seeds
Seeds are amazing and are so versatile. Pumpkin seeds are an important source of zinc, which means they can help protect against osteoporosis. They are also rich in so many minerals, such as iron, copper and magnesium, and they contain L-tryptophan, which has been reported to help with sleep and lowering depression.
9 Walnuts
These brain shaped nuts are full of so many health benefits. They can help keep cholesterol levels healthy and support a healthy heart. They also contain serotonin, which is a brain chemical that can help lift depression.
These are my favourite power foods which help keep my energy levels up throughout the day and stop me from snacking on less than healthy alternatives. What foods do you enjoy that keep your energy levels up?
