Food is fuel, and our active bodies need the best possible fuel sources to perform optimally. Much of what we eat is essential for life, including water, carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. Grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins should be included in your daily diet.
On the other hand, we also eat a great deal of junk; highly processed foods, high fat, and high sugar foods may be delicious, but they do not serve our body’s needs for energy very well, nor do they support health or aging in a meaningful way.
Unfortunately, it’s far too easy to grab take away or mindlessly eat an entire bag of cookies. However, eating the right foods is essential when physically active and when you want enough energy to get through your busy day. There are many different foods to choose from, and if you are unsure about your dietary needs, consult a registered dietician or a registered nutritionist to get you on the right path.
As healthy food choices go, one may not be as versatile or delicious as the humble egg. In addition, eggs offer lean protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. Eggs are low in calories, relatively affordable, and are regarded as a complete protein. Eggs provide a steady source of energy throughout your day and can be prepared in countless ways!
Almonds offer a delicious and filling snack, or they can be combined in salads, oatmeal, or other dishes. Almonds are dense in essential nutrients, protein and can be part of your healthy lifestyle as they can reduce your risk of heart disease. Almonds are also rich in B vitamins, which are essential for helping your body to convert your food into the energy you need to get through your day.
Think of oatmeal as being more than a breakfast food; it’s super filling and can be jazzed up by adding a variety of healthy fruits such as pomegranate seeds, blueberries, and nuts. Oatmeal is ideal for a vegetarian diet, and it can provide much-needed energy via its iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. In addition, oatmeal offers a slow energy burn and will keep you from mindless snacking as it provides a feeling of fullness for a long time.
Salmon is another delicious choice for lean protein, and it’s also rich in omega-three fatty acids, Vitamin D, and B vitamins needed for a healthy heart. So eating salmon for energy is an excellent choice for your overall health. In addition, salmon contains B vitamins, required for energy production. Omega 3 fatty acids aid in the function of our brain, as well as helping to reduce fatigue.
5) Greens:
With so many options, you can make a different delicious green salad or stir fry every day of the week! Many green vegetables are rich in essential ingredients such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin B. Consider adding spinach or kale to your daily diet for a healthy energy boost! Dark leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, spinach, swiss chard are your best bet. In addition, greens are filling and low in calories, which can help you to maintain a healthy body composition.
The above are just five of many yummy, healthy foods that can be part of your daily diet. As you shop for your food, try to choose most of your items from the produce section and choose whole grains and lean proteins. Also, avoid foods that are heavily packaged, processed, and that have added sugars.