A new season is the best reason to try new and delicious food. Jumping from winter to spring can give you a big boost of energy. So why not try some foods that will provide you with that much-needed energy to start the new season?
Energizing Foods
Water
Although technically water is not food, staying hydrated is essential because nutrition and health gravitate around drinking enough water throughout the day.
The daily water intake differs from person to person, depending on your age, gender and activity level. But the old “8×8 rule” is always a wise choice. The “8×8 rule” consists of drinking eight ounces of water eight times a day. Plain water is enough, although you can mix your water with coffee or tea if you want to spice things up.
If you are trying to keep yourself energized, keep your distance from sugar-laden drinks. Sugar is a fast-burning energy beverage. Drinks such as sodas, alcoholic beverages, sweet coffee drinks and fruit juices contain high amounts of sugar. Besides consuming your energy, sugar also adds “empty” calories to your diet.
Dark Chocolate
New holidays are starting to roll around, the most important being Easter. Easter is well-known for being the holiday when the most chocolate is consumed.
Dark chocolate is a popular energizing food. Eating just one or two dark chocolate squares can work wonders for your mood and energy levels. This energizing food also carries heart-healthy flavonoids (i.e., various compounds found naturally in fruits and vegetables) that reduce blood pressure and increase blood flow to the brain.
Spring Foods
Greens
With the arrival of spring, many new vegetables are ready to ripen. Spring foods such as asparagus, peas, zucchini and green beans are the best spring energizing foods to add to your diet.
Asparagus is the best choice when looking for spring food. Because of its health-boosting nutrients and fibers, asparagus can help lower your cholesterol and boost your vitamin K and folate levels. Folate (i.e., a vitamin from the vitamin B family) is a mood-boosting vitamin that lifts your spirits and energy. And the fact that you can cook this energizing food in so many ways makes it so much better!
Peas are a fantastic choice as well! Some benefits of eating peas are blood sugar and cholesterol management. In addition, peas contain plant-based protein and fiber, making them an excellent spring food. Zucchini and green beans have the same advantages as peas.
Whole Grains
As the warmth of the spring season rolls around, fresh grains appear on the market. Whole grains are always a great choice. This spring food is an excellent source of energy that can power you an entire day.
Whole grains are an energizing food because of the many key nutrients. Because of the many benefits, many people start their day by eating whole-wheat toast, quinoa salad or couscous. The carbs from whole grains supply your body with slow-burning energy. It also does not spike your blood sugar, giving you consistent energy levels throughout the day.
Cold-Water Fish
The fishing season usually begins in mid-spring. Cold-water fish can be highly beneficial for your nutrition and energy levels. This is because cold-water fish are full of protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The acid lowers cholesterol and helps you process food more efficiently into energy.
A Parting Reminder
Don’t be afraid to try something new as the spring season arrives. Energizing foods are always an excellent way to keep you going throughout the day. No one says you can’t eat something healthy AND delicious!
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