It’s the depths of the winter, and the motivation to exercise and eat healthily can be at a low ebb at this time of the year. It can be tempting to eat more carb-heavy processed foods or sugary snacks in an effort to give a quick energy boost, but this will soon lead to even worse feelings of sluggishness and fatigue.
The key to sustainable energy levels throughout the day is to eat nutrient dense foods that provide a steady supply of energy for the body. However, it can be difficult to know which foods are best for this purpose, or to find the time to prepare fresh meals from scratch on a daily basis.
The good news is that there are many superfoods that are simple to add to meals such as soups, salads, pasta dishes or stews, or even to smoothies and hot drinks. All you need to do is sprinkle or stir the product through the dish, and you will have a natural source of nutrients and sustainable energy. Here are some superfoods to try.
Kelp powder
Organic seaweed powders such as kelp and nori are excellent sources of iodine, iron, potassium, and B vitamins. Iodine supports thyroid function, which plays an essential role in energy production. Iron is important for maintaining red blood cells, which transport oxygen around the body, helping to keep us feeling alert and energised.
This product may be beneficial for people who are affected by iron-deficiency anemia, but find ferrous sulphate tablets difficult to tolerate. It requires no extra preparation, and can simply be sprinkled onto soups or salads, or taken as a separate supplement.
Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds can be overlooked as a superfood, yet they are rich in healthy fats, protein and magnesium, which are vital for regulating blood sugar levels and providing a consistent source of energy. For the best quality, choose organic products that have the skin on, and eat them raw rather than toasted, as heat may change the nutritional composition.
Nuts such as almonds can simply be eaten as a snack, providing an energy-rich alternative to crisps or biscuits. Seeds can be sprinkled onto cereals, porridge, or pasta dishes to provide flavour and texture. Chia seeds are particularly effective for controlling blood sugar levels and avoiding crashes in energy.
Mushroom powders
Mushrooms have been used as part of traditional Chinese and Tibetan medicine since the 15th century. They are exceptionally rich in a wide variety of vitamins and minerals, which are not depleted even when mushroom extracts are converted into powder form.
For example, cordyceps mushroom powder or capsules are often used by athletes to boost oxygen uptake, helping to power muscles and other vital organs in the body. They can help to combat fatigue, and provide you with that extra dose of vitality not just to get through the day, but to enjoy the challenges and generally thrive rather than simply survive.