Feeling lethargic or drained can be a real problem especially if you need to run some home errands, finish a school project or get through a board meeting. If taking a power nap isn’t an option, set foot in the kitchen or raid the office pantry to grab the following that can energize you:
Coffee – This is perhaps the most popular energy-booster around. While it can definitely wake you up, however, having too much of it has its downsides because of caffeine.
Tea – No matter the kind, a piping-hot serving of tea can keep lethargy at bay. It’s better than coffee since tea contains fewer caffeine and it also boosts cognitive functioning.
Nuts – Almonds, walnuts, cashews, peanuts and pecans all contain healthy polyunsaturated fats that energize the body.
Pumpkin seeds – Pumpkin seeds contain energizing protein and polyunsaturated fats. They contain magnesium too, a mineral necessary for turning food into fuel.
Legumes – Beans, peas and lentils are packed with protein. They also provide complex carbohydrates that energize you for a long period of time.
Hummus – It supplies protein from chickpeas and vitamin C from lemon juice.
Bananas – Bodybuilders and athletes don’t reach for bananas each time they are in need of energy for no reason.
Apples – Fructose in apples can be readily used by the body as fuel. They also contain immune system-boosting vitamin C.
Blueberries – Just like apples, blueberries contain fructose that can work to your advantage. They are also loaded with antioxidants that protect the brain cells.
Watermelon – Just because watermelons are mostly water doesn’t mean the B-vitamins and potassium they contain won’t energize you.
Dark chocolate – Flavonols in dark chocolate improves blood flow to the brain. In addition, the consumption of these dark treats reduces your stress levels and makes you feel happy.
Lean meat – Due to the loads of protein and B-vitamins in them, it isn’t surprising why wolfing down pork chops, lean beef, and chicken or turkey breast can awaken you.
Eggs – Just like lean meat products, eggs are excellent sources of high quality protein and B-vitamins.
Salmon – Healthy fats in this oily fish energize you and ward off joint pain that can keep you from being on the go.
Yogurt – This treat wakes you up because it supplies your body with protein. Opt for a low-sugar or non-fat variety to keep your waistline from expanding.
Red bell peppers – Packed with vitamin C, red bell peppers help combat fatigue on a cellular level.
Leafy green vegetables – They supply your body with vitamins and minerals that help keep you on the go.
Smoothies – Nothing can energize and nourish you more than smoothies out of your favorite fruits and vegetables.
Whole grains – Complex carbohydrates supplied by whole grains let you enjoy energy that lasts for a long time.
Water with lemon – Drinking this is a refreshing way to deal with dehydration, something that can make you lethargic.
