It's 3pm. Time for an afternoon snack. But before you reach for a chocolate bar or soft drink, why not munch a more natural energy boosting food? We've got 5 of our faves here for you to try:
Eggs-xcellent
Unless you're on a vegan diet, eggs are an excellent source of B vitamins, which help transform food into energy. They're also packed with protein (around 30 percent of the recommended daily amount!), which helps keep your hunger at bay for longer – as well as help you rebuild after a tough workout.
Brown rice or quinoa
Brown rice and grains like quinoa are naturally energy boosters. Brown rice, for instance, contain manganese. This mineral is responsible for obtaining energy from carbs and protein. So you stay up, without an energy slump. Team brown rice or quinoa with nuts, seeds, vegetables, and protein at lunch – and you may not need that sugary arvo snack.
I seeds, I seeds
Seeds have to be one of the simplest and cheapest ways to re-energise during the day. Keep a tub handy on your desk at work, and have a handful when you're feeling drained. Sunflower and pumpkin seeds are particularly good, because they have about half the recommended daily amount of magnesium.
Homemade smoothie
Before going to bed, or first thing in the morning, why not whip up your favourite smoothie ready for the next day? Then you'll have an energy drink that's all natural – with none of the nasties. You could make one with banana, milk, cinnamon, and a dash of honey. Or cacao with spinach. Or make a greens smoothie or juice with whatever vegetables and fruits you have left in the fridge.
Sweet, sweet potato
We've long been told to avoid potatoes, but nutritional advice has done a 360 and now we're encouraged to chow down on sweet potato. Why? Because it's packed with vitamin A and vitamin C for ling-lasting energy. It's also filling, so a little goes a long way – and it a great alternative to a take away when you're craving hot chips.
For more tips on natural energy boosters, chat with a dietitian or nutritionist.
Originally published on Jan 21, 2017
