Want to keep your energy up, think twice before eating these foods...
Energy-Draining Foods:
- Caffeine/Energy drinks- You could be in for a dreaded caffeine crash five hours after drinking them, plus having them later in the day could keep you from getting good sleep and leave you tired the next day.
- Candy- The sweet treat may give you a momentary burst of energy, but it’s followed by an energy zap.
- Steak- Sure, it’s got a ton of protein, but your body can only utilize 25 grams of protein in one sitting, so you may feel drained and sluggish afterward
- Fruit smoothies- They’re convenient and may seem healthy, but they take away the natural fiber of whole fruits, your blood sugar levels may spike, then you’re left with a sugar crash and an energy slump.
On the up side, here are the best energy-boosting foods, according to three registered dietitian nutritionists
Energy-boosting foods:
- Black beans- They’re a tasty source of plant-based protein that’s loaded with gut-healthy fiber and carbs to boost energy, plus they’re a great source of iron, which is important for energy
- Bananas- They offer a quick pick-me-up thanks to their naturally occurring sugar and being easily digested.
- Eggs- Jonathan Valdez,a registered dietitian nutritionist, says eggs are a “cheap powerhouse of complete protein and nutrients” that help with energy and slow sugar absorption in the bloodstream when paired with carbs.
- Water- When we’re running low on fluids, we feel drained and tired, but drinking water can quickly give you a boost of energy.
- Pistachios- These nuts are high in protein and help fuel your body with essential amino acids, as well as providing fiber and “better-for-you” unsaturated fats, explains plant-based registered dietitian Amy Gorin.