Energy Boosters that Fight Fatigue Too! Part 1

Boost your energy level and fight fatigue! Are you wondering where all of your precious energy has gone?  You are not alone.  Fatigue and lack of energy are amongst the most common complaints I hear from the patients in my wellness practice.  Chances are there are some simple, dietary changes you could make that will help refuel and restore waning energy levels.  Here are my top dietary strategies for just saying whoa! to fatigue:

• Be sure to have some high quality protein at each feeding/meal.  The digestion of protein gives rise to a prolonged and sustained blood glucose level which translates to a steady and robust energy level. My top picks for energizing proteins are omega 3 fortified eggs, beans, fish, poultry, nuts, low-fat dairy products, and whole soy foods.

• Indulge in a prudent portion (1/2 to 1 ounce) of high quality dark chocolate. This delectable treat provides just the right amount of sugar and caffeine to jump-start dwindling energy levels and is loaded with some of the most powerful antioxidants yet documented.  These antioxidant flavanols enhance blood flow which provides an additional energy boost. 

• Drink a cup of freshly brewed tea.  Tea provides a modest amount of energy – boosting caffeine, along with super-potent antioxidants called catechins that increase blood flow.  Tea is the only food I know of that can boost energy, enhance immunity, prevent cancer, and protect against heart disease all for zero calories! 

• Eat more beans!  I consider beans nature’s most perfect energy-boosting food.  They are a rich source of the body’s preferred fuel – glucose – that’s released steadily over a long period of time (this translates to immediate, but sustained energy).  In addition, they are chock full of several B vitamins and minerals that play a key role in energy production at the cellular level.
  

For more on how to eat to boost your energy and maximize the nutritional value of food, buy my Eat Right for Life! DVD.

Click here for Part 2