There are many nutritious, tasty foods that will energize your body, and also give you the endurance needed for daily activities. Here are the top eight powerhouse foods recommended to help keep you on top of your game! All eight of these energy-packed foods are nutrient-rich, with antioxidants, omega-3′s, and fiber. These energizers will help you lose any excess body fat, and promote your physical fitness.
Bing Cherries
Bing cherries are acclaimed by nutritionists as a food that reduced the risk of various diseases. Packed full of Vitamin C, skip the OJ when you’re sick, grab some of these jewels. They contain anthocyanins, an antioxidant known to benefit your health. Bing cherries aid in removing inflammation in your body. They can be savored dried, frozen, or fresh from the orchard. Plus they are a delicious low calorie snack! A handful a day keeps the Doctor at bay.
Red Beans
Red beans are a small variety of the delectable kidney beans that are popular in Mexican cuisine. A 2004 study by the USDA ranked these little beans top of the class for antioxidants. Antioxidants help decrease stress in the body and they help ward off cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and heart disease. All beans are great to add in to your diet! Fresh is best, but if you buy canned, be sure to rinse them thoroughly before cooking to help eliminate gas.
Chia Seeds
Chia Seeds have many benefits as an energy food. These are tiny seeds are the one of the best sources for omega-3 fatty acids, and also contain protein, minerals and antioxidants. They are highly soluble as well. When added to a drink, they will act like a sponge, absorbing the liquid. This has the added benefit of giving you the feeling you’re satiated. This will suppress that urge to eat longer. Sprinkle a couple tablespoons of chia seeds in any of your baked food, oatmeal, drinks, smoothies, dips, and yogurt.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals. They contain glucosinolates, which are known as cancer fighters. Cruciferous vegetables are vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, and bok choy. High in vitamins A and C, folic acid, and magnesium. These veggies are best eaten raw, gently baked and sauteed or lightly steamed. You reduce the nutrients when overcooked, so be careful.
Avocados
Avocados contain vitamin E, potassium, and mono-unsaturated fats. Avocados are packed full of healthy fat, which is fabulous for your heart, skin, hair and nails. Because they are nice and fatty they also contain quite a bit of calories, so don’t overdo it, two tablespoons equals 50 calories. Add avocados to your smoothie to make them extra creamy, salads, sauces and dips.
Seaweed
Seaweed is a highly popular food in Asian culture. It’s full of vitamins C and K, folate, iron, and iodine, as well as some minerals that aren’t found in the usual western foods. Seaweed is offered in varied colors, and can be served dried or wet. You can eat it as a snack as it is, or add it to cuisine, such as miso soup or sushi. Dried seaweed is tasty on salads, or as a salad (pictured).
Pistachios
Pistachios contain copper, magnesium, thiamin, vitamin B6, and have many antioxidants. Pistachios are also believed to lower cholesterol levels. A one ounce serving (approx 49 nuts) can provide 3 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein, and under 200 calories. They are a perfect for a snack at your desk to help get you through the afternoon drag.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin gets its bright orange hue from beta carotene. Beta carotene is a precurser to Vitamin A which aids in helping your body to fight infections, maintain clear eye sight, along with other great benefits. It is high in potassium and fiber, and is a building block to vitamin A. Perfect to roast with some simple seasoning, make fabulous soups and is even great to add in to smoothies, baked dishes, and oatmeal.
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