12 MOOD & ENERGY BOOSTING FOODS!

Many Americans rely on sugar and caffeine to get through the day. In the long run, this can lead to adrenal burnout and increase the risk of diabetes. There are healthy ways to increase your energy levels.

These mood and energy-boosting foods can help you get through the day!

1. Salmon - Wild caught salmon is a great source of the energy-boosting goodness that is essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for energy production, brain activity and circulation. Salmon is also great for maintaining heart health! You just can’t go wrong with a nice piece of salmon.

2. Bananas - Bananas are one of the world’s best foods for supplying your body with energy. They are rich in potassium and B vitamins. Bananas can provide your body with a more sustained release of energy. The supply of vitamins and carbohydrates in bananas make you feel full, help slow down digestion and keep blood sugar levels stable. It is better to have a slightly green banana, since they have a lower glycemic index than ripe bananas do.

3. Coconuts - The oils that are found in coconuts provide a super nutritious source of energy as it primarily consists of medium chain triglycerides, a type of fat that is turned into energy quickly and efficiently. Coconut fat is utilized by the body to actually produce energy rather than store it as fat.

4. Lentils - Lentils and other legumes, such as kidney beans and chickpeas, help stabilize blood glucose levels and prevent those mid-afternoon crashes. By incorporating lentils into your lunchtime meal, you will stretch your energy levels that little bit further and avoid that mid afternoon slump altogether.

5. Eggs - Eggs are a great source of iron and protein! They are also naturally rich in B-vitamins, which are responsible for converting food into energy. Eggs can give you a sustainable hit of energy, which can last throughout the whole day.

6. Kale - Kale truly is a superfood, which is high in vitamins and minerals. Kale is one of the best vegetables you can fuel your body with and is a real energy booster. kale provides you with the essential minerals copper, potassium, iron and phosphorus. To get the most out of the energy boosting benefits of this super veggie, ensure you cook it instead of eating it raw as it makes it easier for your body to digest and absorb all those important nutrients.

7. Ginger Tea - Forget the afternoon coffee and grab a ginger tea instead! Not only will the coffee keep you up all night, caffeine is also known to contribute to nervousness, increased heart rate and restlessness. Ginger-infused tea is filled with antioxidants and nutrients that will give you that afternoon boost without the caffeine consequences. All you need to do is boil water with some fresh ginger for 5-10 minutes and add a squeeze of lemon before drinking.

8. Nuts - Almonds, cashews and hazelnuts are all high in magnesium, which plays a major role in converting sugar into energy. Nuts are also filled with fiber to keep your blood sugar levels even. Keep a bag at your desk and just a handful at 3PM will give you longer lasting energy than a cup of coffee ever will.

9. Quinoa - Quinoa is a gluten-free grain that contains more protein than any other grain or rice. It is so rich in amino acids that it is considered a complete source of protein; high in lysine, methionine and cysteine. It is also high in folate, magnesium, phosphorus and manganese, making it a nutrient-packed source of carbohydrates for lasting energy levels.

10. Goji Berries - Goji berries have been used for literally thousands of years in Chinese medicine to help increase energy and enhance the release of hormones. They increase the body’s ability to handle stress and support a healthy mood, mind and memory. They taste pretty good too.

11. Asparagus - You can boost your energy and mood levels with asparagus. It is one of the best plant-based sources of tryptophan, which helps create serotonin, one of the brain’s primary mood-regulating neurotransmitters. The high levels of folate also add to asparagus’ happiness-promoting profile!

12. Raw Cacao - Sometimes you do need that little sweetness in the afternoon. There is nothing wrong with that if you do it the right way! By allowing yourself a little treat every now and then, you might be able to prevent sugar binges. Nibbling on a square or two of dark chocolate energizes the body by providing an excellent source of iron and magnesium. Make sure it is at least 70% cacao!

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