Oatmeal: Rule number one -- don’t skip breakfast. Your body needs the fuel to jump start the day. What’s energy boosting about oatmeal? Its combination of fiber and complex carbohydrates, which turns into a longer lasting energy source as your body takes more time to digest it. Oatmeal also contains vitamin B – another source of energy. Watch out for the flavored oatmeal – which can have too much sugar. Your best bet is to buy the old fashion kind and add your own sweeteners, whether it’s a dash of brown sugar, honey or blueberries.
Almonds: These potent pals are a great in-between snack – they were also Oprah’s secret weapon as she slimmed down for the Academy Awards a few years back! They contain MUFAs (mono unsaturated fatty acids) also known as good fats, calcium, zinc, iron, protein, all proven to be terrific energy boosters. Check out almond butter as a tasty spread as well!
Lean Meats: You can’t beat lean red meat for its amounts of protein, zinc, vitamins and iron -- which can be an especially important component of energy for women. Make sure you are actually getting the leanest cuts of high quality meats like a round cut of sirloin from the market.
Yogurt: Another super snacking choice! The combination of calcium, magnesium and proteins make yogurt a quick energy booster. Again, beware of the sugar-packed varieties – read your product labels. There are lower sugar options on the shelves.
Bananas: A fantastic natural sugar boost, bananas boast lots of potassium, fiber, vitamins and are more filling than many other fruits. Try it with a dollop of protein-packed peanut butter for an even longer lasting energy hike!
Other suggested energy boosters: Lentil beans, dark chocolate, peanut butter, brown rice, multigrain bread, pumpkin seeds, oranges, apples, spinach, black beans, eggs, broccoli and sweet potatoes.
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