Eating for energy

The food we eat is essentially the fuel our body runs on, and when we fill up on rubbish – unsurprisingly our energy levels are affected. Eating foods that work with the body to increase energy however will help both your body and brain function at their best.

If you suffer from lethargy and have ruled out any medical causes, try upping your intake of the following foods:

Beetroot

This underused vegetable is coming into season now and is a fantastic source of energy. If you’re not a fan of the taste, try juicing it with carrot and ginger for an energy boosting drink before hitting the gym.

Ginger

Helping to detox your body, ginger reduces inflammation and encourages the body to work at its best. This naturally helps to increase energy levels as the body isn’t overworked trying to eliminate toxins. Add ginger to juices or include some in a stir-fry.

Smoked mackerel

A good source of protein that has the added benefit of being full of fatty acids, mackerel is a great food to eat after a workout. Add some vegetables and you have a quick and easy balanced meal.

As well as filling up on these nutritious foods, you should also look to avoid the following:

Low-fat foods

While it can be tempting to go for the low-fat option, keep in mind that these are usually packed with sugar to make up for the lack of fat. This sugar spike will cause you to crash and feel tired soon after eating. Don’t be afraid of full fat foods like milk and yoghurt as they will keep you feeling fuller for longer.

Refined sugar

As we’ve briefly mentioned, sugar causes your blood sugar level to spike which both encourages fat storage and makes you feel tired after the initial buzz wears off. Try alternatives such as honey and dates, and eat slow releasing fruits like grapes and blueberries.