“You are what you eat” is a basic phrase with a profound meaning behind it. It is true that food is the fuel for sustaining a life.
Whether it’s in the form of vegetables or food for us humans or in the form of glucose for plants, we need food for living.
Moreover, food has many benefits, such as providing nutrients to our body, satisfying hunger/cravings, managing weight control, and many more.
However, the primary function of consuming food is replenishing our energy and mood. Healthy food helps in promoting a healthy gut, which enhances brain health.
Still, most individuals don’t know what foods help increase energy levels and improve mood. Hence, in this article, we’ll be discussing the top 5 foods you can consume to boost good energy.
- Nuts and Seeds
Why they’re Great: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, peanuts, and others are wealthy sources of healthy fats, protein, and micronutrients. They support blood sugar regulation and offer a constant supply of energy.
Key Components
- Antioxidants
- Vitamin C
- Fiber
How they Help: Nuts are especially beneficial as they contain healthy fats that help maintain brain function and stabilize the mood. Some of the minerals that are readily available in nuts and seeds include magnesium, which is believed to cause relief in anxiety instances and improve sleep.
How to Enjoy: You can eat several mixed nuts as a snack, sprinkle seeds as toppings for salads or yogurt, or use them in baking to enhance the texture.
- Fatty Fish
Why it’s Great: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are some of the examples of fatty fish that are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids that are vital for brain functions.
Omega-3s are, in particular, crucial for the activity of the brain and for regulating moods. These foods have anti-inflammatory effects on the brain and are known to prevent mood swings.
Key Components
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamin D
- Protein
How it Helps: Omega-3 can combat symptoms of depression and anxiety, which makes them a practical addition to the dietary plan for improved mental health.
How to Enjoy: Grill, bake or pan-sear the fatty fish and complement the dish with vegetables or a salad. Fish is one of the most healthy foods that can be consumed at least 2 times a week to make changes toward positive moods and increased energy.
- Leafy Greens
Why it’s Great: Spinach and other greens like kale and Swiss chard are healthy foods filled with vitamins and minerals. They are loaded with folate, a B vitamin that is instrumental in the production of dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters that influence mood.
Key Components
- Folate
- Iron
- Vitamin K
- Vitamin C
How it Helps: Low levels of folate have been linked to causing depression; therefore, taking the right amount will assist in mood swings. Moreover, leafy greens are a source of iron and Vitamin C that increase energy levels.
How to Enjoy: Try to include green vegetables as subsidiaries in salads, smoothies, and stir-fried dishes. They are versatile and can be added to different meals to help you boost your nutrient consumption.
- Berries
Why it’s Great: Some fruits like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries contain antioxidants that shield the brain from oxidative stress. They also contain vitamins and minerals that can help in the production of energy and regulation of moods.
Key Components
- Antioxidants
- Vitamin C
- Fiber
How it Helps: Berries are packed with antioxidants that assist in reducing inflammation, which contributes to the decline in mood and energy levels. Moreover, vitamin C is also beneficial in preventing fatigue and enhancing the energy levels of the body.
How to Enjoy: You can sprinkle berries on your bowl of cereal, top your yogurt, or blend them into your oatmeal or smoothie. They can also be taken on their own as a snack to promote healthy living and a healthy diet.
- Kratom
Why it’s Great: Kratom is an evergreen tree that is indigenous to Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, and it has been known to have stimulating and mood-altering effects. The leaves of the kratom plant contain Alkaloids that interact with the brain receptors, thus causing increased energy.
Key Components
- Mitragynine
- 7-hydroxy mitragynine
How it Helps: Kratom in low dosage has stimulating effects that produce an energy increase similar to the effects of caffeine. It has also been used to prevent tiredness and depression and even get rid of minor anxiety. In fact, Kratom works by engaging with the brain’s opioid receptors, and the feelings of pleasure help boost optimism and energy levels. If you’re looking to buy authentic Kratom, Canada Kratom Express is the perfect option.
How to Enjoy: It can be ingested as a tea, in capped capsules, or in a powdered form, which is then dissolved in water or juice.
However, it is essential to understand that Kratom should not be taken in huge quantities.
As with any supplements or therapy, it is always suggested to consult a healthcare professional before adding Kratom to your daily regimen since it may possess side effects or even interact with medication.
Bottomline
Eating food that can help in enhancing mood and energy is beneficial for your body. However, it is recommended to always eat a nutrient-dense and healthy diet.
While it might be tempting at times to eat sugary food, it is always preferred to eat a well-balanced diet that includes vegetables, nuts, and fruits.
Also, if you’re low on energy levels for a prolonged period of time, you can always visit your healthcare professional, as they might suggest over-the-counter methods or treatments.
Eat Healthy, Stay Happy!
