Foods essential purpose in our lives is to provide fuel for our bodies and minds–Energy. Noticeably, the higher quality our food is the better we feel and the more energized we move through our day.  “Superfoods” (the highlight to most health and wellness labeling today) pack nutritional punch, while also supporting our immune systems, our mental and physical health, boost stamina, longevity, cut down on inflammation in the body, and most directly support energy for all our body’s systems.

In order to quickly energize your body and mind, I suggest including one superfood with every meal or snack you eat for a week.  It’s amazing the affect these premium fuels will have on your energy from morning to night.  Below is a list of a few of my favorites. Enjoy!

Avocado

Addict! It has never been hard for me to incorporate this delightful food into any meal or snack.  Avocados are a wonderful source of healthy fats and fiber.  They are also packed with potassium and vitamins A, E, and folate. They’re also high in the nutrient alpha-linoleic acid which improves heart health and lowers inflammation in the blood.  Inflammation in the blood can lead to conditions such as; arthritis, diabetes, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Add this to everything you can; smoothies, salads, on top of toast, plain, baked, the list goes on and on (and for me it does). 

Blueberries

Antioxidant powerhouses!  They are also loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, fiber and energy boosting carbohydrates.  The aforementioned nutrients in addition to the berries phytochemicals (the chemical that gives plants their pigment) boost immune function and improve overall mood by stopping the accumulation of free radicals in the body.  Incorporate them into smoothies, mixed into yogurt, or on top of salads.

Chia Seeds

Packed with fiber and nutrients that help to balance blood sugar levels and slow the conversion of starch o sugar in the body so that energy levels stay stable.  If you’re tired due to dehydration they also help by absorbing 10-15 times their weight in water prolonging your hydration levels in the body.  Enjoy in a smoothie or whip up some chia seed pudding!

Kale

Yes Kale. Again. One of the most talked about superfoods and for excellent reason! Kale is full of vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory agents. It also packs more flavanoids (antioxidants that transfer to energy in the body) per bite than most of its green leafy and cruciferous competition.  Get this in your salads, smoothies, sauteed, or baked into chips.

Lentils

Filled with potassium, zinc, and energy boosting iron (something ladies need more often than not).  Lentils in particular are also loaded with selenium, a mineral that has been linked to mood enhancement.  Studies show tha
t a low level of selenium in the body causes less energy and in  accordance poorer mood.  Sauteed, boiled, or baked lentils are delicious and adding them to salads, side dishes, and into baked goods is a wonderful way to incorporate them into your diet.

Oats

Widely considered the most energizing grain, attributing factors include their protein content, magnesium, potassium, vitamins and minerals, and high fiber content.  Enjoy with breakfast to because the fiber they contain digests slowly in the body helping to stabilize blood sugar levels throughout your day. Put atop cold cereal, alone with fruit and/or spices, or with your yogurt.

Sprouts

Filled with energy boosting fiber, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals.  They also contain concentrated amounts of phtyochemicals (plant compounds) that help protect us against cancer and free radicals in the body. Mix them into salads, on sandwiches, or into smoothies. (see my article on sprouts)

Have a healthy and energized week!