Drained. Tired. Worn out. These are just some of the words used to describe a feeling of just being plain old "pooped". No matter which way we look at it and no matter which words we use to illustrate, the simple fact of the matter is that life is moving at an alarming rate leaving us gasping for air and heading for the nearest pillow.
For many of us, getting up in the morning is something that we dare not think about, whilst for others it is that afternoon slump that literally leaves us unable to think. However, night time, for the other third is the time whether the couch seems to be calling, petitioning us to become, for that moment, the dreaded couch potato.
Whichever time of the day renders your "slump", food is often one of the perpetrators. Research suggests that a poor diet lacking in important vitamins and minerals and high in processed foods is often the cause of sluggishness and fatigue. A nutritionally dense diet, however, often boosts energy levels.
Food is our fuel. Therefore, what we choose to fuel our bodies is going to impact highly on its ultimate performance. As we wake up and get out of bed, our day has begun and our bodies need to be refueled after a fast. Breakfast is the breaking of the fast, and to say that this is the most important meal of the day is definitely no aphorism.
In order to get your body prepared for the day it is important to choose foods that are wholegrain. Choosing a combination of carbohydrates, a healthy fat and protein will ensure endurance and energy and decrease the chances of morning fatigue. Some ideas are:
- Poached egg on wholegrain toast with real butter
- Protein shake
- Oatmeal with yoghurt, flaxseeds and raisins (of a fruit of choice)
Eating healthy at the start of the day should be a catalyst for the rest of the day. Such foods such as carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats such as avocado, olive oil, coconut oil, butter should be included in the daily diet. This sort of eating improves memory, decreased fatigue and boosts energy.
Snacks need to consist of fruit, nuts and seeds. Sliced raw vegetables such as carrots dipped in humus or avocado dip makes for an excellent snack. Steer away from the simple carbohydrates such as lollies, cakes as these will give you a quick energy fix, but leave you feeling tired and fatigued after a while.
Should advice be needed on healthy eating and fatigue, contact your nutritionist or dietitian.
Originally published on Aug 30, 2012
