Are you bothered by a constant desire to sleep? If you’ve lost those spring steps, spend half your day yawning, and miss your Sealy Posturepedic in the middle of the afternoon — and your name isn’t Rip Van Winkle — you may need to change your diet.
Yes, there are foods that can fight fatigue and restore your spirits and strength. These are just a few.
1.Oatmeals
Skipping breakfast is a big no-no, especially if you’re struggling with fatigue. Instead of opting for a pop tart or sugary cereal that will give you a short-term energy boost followed by the inevitable sugar crash, enjoy a bowl of healthy oatmeal goodness.
Oatmeal is a whole grain, so it is digested more slowly than refined carbohydrates. This prevents spikes and dips in blood sugar levels – and energy. It also promotes a healthy digestive system, helping you avoid constipation. After all, it’s hard to feel excited when you’re all stuffed up.
Oatmeal also contains many other fatigue-fighting nutrients, including magnesium, thiamin, phosphorus and protein.
However, one caveat is that not all oatmeal is created equal. Avoid the instant varieties and choose, instead, large flake oats. It may take a little longer to prepare, but the health benefits – and energy boost – will be well worth it.
2. Dark Chocolate
Yes, chocolate—of the dark variety—is another great food for fighting fatigue. And tempt your taste buds. A study conducted at Hull York Medical School UK examined patients suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Half of it is given real dark chocolate, while the other half is given white chocolate that is chocolate-tinged. Dark chocolate consumers experience less fatigue.
Why? It is believed that the Polyphenols found in dark chocolate cause an increase in the levels of serotonin, a chemical in the brain associated with feelings of happiness.
However, one word of warning is that only a small amount of dark chocolate is all that is needed to fight fatigue. Huuu! Too much can lead to weight gain, which will only increase lethargy.
Read more about the healing powers of chocolate.
3. Yogurt
Yogurt is special because it provides a quick burst of energy that lasts a long time. Why? Your body processes it quickly due to its creamy consistency; however, its high protein content makes it a long-lasting source of pep.
Plus, probiotic yogurt keeps your digestive system healthy – fighting off the bad bacteria and other bad actors found along the way. Researchers have found a link between Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and inadequate amounts of good bacteria – probiotics – in the digestive tract. Adding two daily servings of yogurt dramatically improved fatigue symptoms among test subjects.
And, as an added bonus, yogurt is available in a wide variety of flavors, ensuring that there is one for every taste.
4. melons
When it comes to fatigue, being a “melon head” isn’t a bad thing. After all, fatigue is a symptom of dehydration and the best way to add water to your system is to drink water or eat water-laden foods. Water can get boring after a while. This is where melon comes into play.
Melons can give you a much-needed break from glass after glass of clear stuff. Watermelon, for example, is made up of 90 percent water. This will satisfy your body’s need for H2O, while also giving you a sweet, low-calorie treat.
5. Eggs
Yes, the humble egg is a powerhouse in fighting fatigue. If you are deficient in vitamin B-12, your fatigue may be due to anemia – and eggs contain this healthy nutrient. Anemia can also be caused by iron deficiency. Eggs are also an excellent source of iron.
Packed with protein – six grams in just one – eggs help maintain normal blood sugar levels. And, eggs can be prepared in many ways – making them a very versatile choice for any meal of the day.
By eating the right foods, you can welcome back your former energetic self. So stop pressing “snooze”, kick back those sheets, and start a new day full of vigor.
And check this out 12 Surprising Causes of Fatigue.
Image courtesy of photos.com.
