Since your body requires food to give you energy to carry out your daily activities, you need to make sure you eat foods that boost your energy intake. Greasy and sugar-laden treats may seem very appetizing, but they will leave you with low levels of energy and a craving for more food. To eat right and maintain a healthy body weight you need to first find out your recommended daily intake of food, as this varies from person to person. You should also try to incorporate the foods mentioned below that are sure to keep your energy levels high on a daily basis.
1. Complex Carbohydrates
Although simple carbohydrates give you instant energy because they’re easily broken down by the body, complex carbohydrates offer you a constant source of energy throughout the day because the body breaks them down over a period of time. Foods like oats, brown rice, whole grain breads and bran are a few examples of complex carbohydrates that you must consume on a daily basis. Fresh fruits like apples, and certain dry fruits like apricots, are also healthy sources of energy.
2. Healthy Fats
Not all fats are bad for your body. Some fats promote cardiac health along with healthy skin and eyes. These fats should be added to your meals in moderate amounts. Instead of cooking your food with regular vegetable or canola oil, consider using extra virgin olive oil. Also make sure you consume fish like sardines as they contain fish oils that are good for your health. These healthy fats boost your energy and will keep you active and strong for years to come.
3. Meats
Meats are primarily made up of proteins and these proteins not only increase your energy levels but they also keep you mentally active. Since the digestive tract breaks down proteins slowly, your body will receive a slow and steady release of energy. Meats like chicken and lean beef are healthy if they’re eaten in the right amount. Other sources of proteins like fish, legumes, and eggs should also be incorporated into your diet.
4. Nuts and Fiber
It’s a good idea to snack on nuts if you feel an urge to eat something between your meals. Nuts will keep you satisfied and they will also provide you with energy. The body also requires fiber as it facilitates digestion and easy elimination of food from the body. So consider eating foods that contain fiber. As a general guideline, you might consider eating 5 to 6 small meals a day rather than 3 heavy ones. This will not only keep you active the entire day, but it will also help you maintain an ideal body weight. You should avoid drinking too many caffeinated beverages each day as they dehydrate your body and give rise to illnesses in the long run. Along with the foods listed above, you must consume plenty of water or fluids like fresh juices to prevent you from feeling tired.
