The purpose of food is to provide us with energy so that we can function optimally throughout the day. Being on an energy yo-yo (up one minute and down the next) is no fun – and it’s bad for our health. Choosing the right foods to help us sustain our energy levels is first prize.
Here’s a list of a few plant-based foods that will help with energy levels:
- Sweet potatoes: Sweet potato has both fibre and complex carbohydrates, both of which ensure that the body digests them slowly. And you can combine sweet potatoes with fat or protein for an even more sustained release.
- Apples: They’re an excellent fruit for slow, sustained energy release due to the combination of natural sugar and fibre. Apples also contain pectin, which helps to control blood sugar and is great for gut health. If you can get organic apples that’s always best. Also, having a little almond butter with your apple is not only extremely tasty but healthier too, as it adds some healthy fat and protein.
- Hemp seeds: Not only do they contain all the essential amino acids, but they also contain complex carbohydrates that help release glucose slowly into the bloodstream. They’re easy to add to your smoothie, to sprinkle on salads or even to add to your favourite energy balls.
- Matcha tea: It’s better than coffee when it comes to both picking you up and sustaining energy.
- Walnuts: Nuts can be a great snack, and they’re packed with nutrients to promote energy. One nut that we don’t think much of is the walnut. Walnuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that help to increase energy levels. They’re also good for the brain.
Remember, for optimal health we want to make sure our blood glucose levels aren’t going all over the place. That means replacing energy-draining foods with healthier alternatives.
