We know that UnFranchise® owners are very busy people who work from dawn to dusk – and then some! Since running out of energy just isn’t an option for you, feeding your body well is essential. So rather than reaching for yet another cup o’ joe, here is our list of 5 energy-rich foods you should incorporate into your diet.
Eggs
Did you know that eggs contain the highest complete form of protein than any other food? And don’t think that protein is only good for maintaining muscle mass; protein is essential for keeping your energy levels up, keeping you fuller longer, and it doesn’t cause a spike your blood sugar. Whether you eat eggs scrambled or sunny side up, choosing eggs for breakfast is a great way to start your day off right!
Brown rice
Why is brown rice so much healthier for you than white rice? It all goes back to the way the grains are manufactured. White rice starts out brown, but it’s milled to remove the outer layer of the grain where the fiber and nutrients reside. Less fiber means your body converts the carbohydrates into glucose (“energy”) faster than your body needs, causing a spike in excess blood sugar. And when your blood sugar spikes, you can bank on an energy crash an hour or two later. Brown rice on the other hand retains all of the nutrients found in the outer layer of the grain, which helps keep you full without spiking your blood sugar.
Water
Yes, we know that water is not technically a food, but if you want to keep your energy levels up, you have to drink up. When you’re dehydrated, your cells use energy less efficiently, which causes fatigue. To ensure that you’re drinking 8-10 glasses of water a day, keep a bottle on your desk, in your car, and anywhere else that will make it easy to reach for. Juices, sodas, and coffee are not substitutes for H2O, but feel free to dress your water up with lemon slices or mint to make it more palatable.
Nuts
Did you know that cashews, almonds, and hazelnuts are rich in protein and magnesium, a mineral that helps convert sugar into energy? If you feel like you’re running low on energy, try incorporating more magnesium- rich foods into your diet. If getting enough magnesium proves to be challenging for you, incorporating a magnesium supplement into your diet might be the way to go.
Fresh fruits
Snacking on fresh fruit will help keep you energized, satiated, and hydrated. Apples, strawberries, and pears are great choices because of their high fiber, good carbs, healthy nutrients, and water content. Go a step further and combine fresh fruit with a source of healthy fat and protein for a well-rounded snack that will keep your energy levels up while keeping hunger away for hours. For example: snack on apples slices with a serving of natural peanut butter, or try pairing a pear with a few squares of cheddar cheese.
These are our favorite foods for staying energized, but we want to hear from you! Tell us in the comments below what you like to snack on to keep you going all day long!