Foods to keep you energised vs Foods that sap your energy

THE energy in our bodies is supplied mainly by the foods we eat. But did you know that sometimes our energy can be drained by the very food that we think should be boosting it? Dietician and nutritionist Jenelle Solomon says that’s because different kinds of foods have different effects on our bodies. Below she shares a list of foods that will help to keep you healthy and to feel more energised:

Bananas

A grab-and-go fruit that is best eaten in the morning, bananas are very positive on your energy levels. Bananas are good for boosting energy because they are comprised mostly of sugars (glucose, fructose and sucrose) and fibre.

Fish

Fish is great for your muscles because they are so rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, which can help you maintain those high energy levels.

Foods rich in antioxidants

Red grapes, cranberries, tomatoes and onions are good foods. They contain many of the vitamins and minerals known to strengthen the immune system.

Chia seeds

Hydration is a very important element in boosting energy. One of the chia seeds’ most known properties is their ability to absorb 10 times their weight in water. In addition, the chia seeds have the proportion of protein, fats and fibre to give your body an energy boost.

Yoghurt

Yoghurt contains lactose, a milk sugar which is easily used for energy. It is also packed with protein. This will help to reduce the speed at which lactose is absorbed, thereby making energy last longer.

Water

If you want to increase your energy levels, you should make sure to keep your body hydrated.

On the other hand, foods that simply sap your energy include:

Saturated fats and trans fats

These foods help to accelerate and worsen the inflammatory process — all types of red meat, margarine and fried foods. Your body also needs to work very hard to digest them, thereby using up a great deal of energy.

Sodas

Sodas contain a lot of sugars and artificial sweeteners which can do harm to the body. When taken, they may make you feel good for a little while, but sooner than you know it you’ll begin to wilt.

Caffeine

Of course, coffee is known to delay sleep and make you feel alive and ready for the day or for a late night; however, it sets you up for later, leaving you feeling even more exhausted. This is why many coffee drinkers need several cups a day in order to feel alive.

Pastries

Nothing is better than grabbing a doughnut or two, or a muffin and a few cookies on the go each morning, right? This can actually become addictive, and these foods are so full of sugars and unhealthy carbohydrates that they don’t fuel your day like you thought they would; instead, they give you a boost for a short period before making you crash.

White bread

Choose whole grain bread instead of white bread the next time you make yourself a sandwich. The starches used in the production of white bread can increase your blood sugar levels while significantly reducing your energy levels.