As athletes, we need energy to perform well. Lack of energy and low motivation go hand in hand. I will highlight five energizing foods that I love, and I hope that you will enjoy them as well. All of them are light, making them great to eat before a workout.
#1 Blueberries
One cup of blueberries supplies you with 4 grams of fiber, which acts as an appetite suppressant, and a 20 gram boost of energizing carbohydrates. Still, this beautiful blue fruit gets even better. The natural dye that makes these berries blue in color has been shown to enhance coordination and balance, making it perfect for those who enjoy yoga, such as myself.
#2 Cashews, almonds and hazelnuts
Not only are cashews, almonds and hazelnuts packed with protein, but they also contain magnesium, a mineral that is needed to change sugar into energy. Research has shown a link between magnesium deficiency and low energy levels.
Cashews are my favorite, and I always try to keep a small bag of them in my purse or gym bag.
#3 Spinach
Spinach happens to be loaded with fatigue fighting folate. Folate is a B vitamin that is needed to prevent anemia, and it may decrease the chances of developing depression. Anemia and depression can both wipe a person out, so athletes should be sure to eat plenty of leafy green vegetables. A half cup serving of cooked spinach provides 25 percent of the recommended daily allowance of this healthy B vitamin.
My favorite way to incorporate spinach into my diet is by making chicken gnocchi soup, which contains spinach. Soup is especially enjoyable in the winter months.
#4 Cantaloupe
Due to the potassium, dietary fiber and B vitamins (B6, B3 and folate) found in cantaloupe, it offers energy and blood sugar stability. Cantaloupe is also high in vitamin A and vitamin C.
#5 Tea
This is a drink rather than a food, but it is well worth mentioning. Tea is superior to and works differently than other caffeinated beverages. Research has revealed tea's ability to boost alertness, response time and memory. The benefits of tea are credited to the mixture of L-theanine, an amino acid, and caffeine. In addition to having an awakening effect, black tea can fight stress, resulting in a calm yet alert state of mind.
I prefer ice tea, which is a combination of orange and black tea, but every colors of tea is excellent.
Exercise itself has been shown to boost energy, so when you are lacking motivation, get up and go. You should return more awake and rejuvenated than when you begun.
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More from Rebecca Bardelli:
Five Foods Every Athlete Should Incorporate into His or Her Diet
The Truth About Protein, Lies Revealed
Five Excellent Eats to Serve at Game Night
Top Five Foods for Female Athletes: A Woman's Perspective
Rebecca completed courses in Medical Terminology, Administrative Medical Assisting, and Coding and Billing. She is recognized by the National Healthcareer Association as a Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) and Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA). In addition, Rebecca is a former gymnast and is avid about yoga, swimming and other athletic activities.
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