Super Foods for Energy and Health

Yes, there are foods that we would classify as “Super Foods” – by these we mean foods that provide extra benefits than just energy, protein, carbohydrate and fats. They are a powerhouse of nutrients, vitamins and minerals.
1. Wholegrain breads and cereals – buy the ones that are processed the least where the whole grain has not been milled down to flour. The more unrefined the grain, the slower it will be digested and the longer it will last in your system and provide energy. Also these are excellent sources of fibre and B group vitamins which all help to maintain great digestive health and keep energy levels up when training.
2. Fruit is not a new super food. However did you know that the humble red apple has higher levels of antioxidants than many berries? Apples, pears and many everyday fruits are just as good as the highly marketed goji and noni fruits and they are cheaper and more readily available. But don’t forget to eat the fruit skins! Great for snacks – fruits boosts your blood sugar without pushing it too high.
3. Sardines – easy to find in most supermarkets, sardines are an excellent source of omega 3 essential fatty acids which help circulation as well as protein and calcium – please eat the bones!
4. Camelia Sinensis or the humble tea plant. Drinking 3-4 cups of tea per day whether green or black will keep you hydrated and alert. The recent discovery of the substance L-Theanine in tea has helped to explain why the caffeine in tea doesn’t give you that “high” feeling.
5. Other fabulous foods for maintaining energy levels include vegetables like sweet potato, corn and pumpkin. Lentils are also great – try to include canned beans and legumes into salads, soups and meat dishes.
Try to eat less snacks that provide no nutrition benefits – cakes, biscuits, muffins
Crisps, soft drinks and lollies – these will cause your blood sugar to sky rocket and then fall quickly causing an energy slump later.
If you are drinking alcohol try not to have more than 2 drinks at dinner time and limit caffeinated drinks to 1 to 2 per day.
If you have questions, suggestions or want more information contact
Written By: Ahead In Health. www.aheadinhealth.com.au