Our modern world gives us plenty of opportunities to feel weighed down, worn out, and continually searching for a boost to our energy and morale. By choosing our daily food intake carefully, we can give ourselves the best shot at feeling good all day long.
AVOID ADDED SUGARS.
They give you a boost, but your mood crashes when the sugar surge in your bloodstream drops precipitously. Worse, you’re left craving more sugar! Tip: Some so-called healthy convenience foods (think instant oatmeal or vanilla almond milk) are big offenders when it comes to sugar content.
BULK UP YOUR “HEALTHY” LUNCH.
Low-calorie offerings of just salad or vegetables won’t get you through the afternoon, and you’ll start snacking on some unhealthy, easy-to-grab items. Add protein to your lunch for slow-burning energy. Think lean meat, but there are many vegetarian options, such as nuts, chickpeas, quinoa, or beans.
CONSIDER THE POSSIBILITY OF DAIRY INTOLERANCE.
Are you feeling unusually fatigued after eating yogurt or cheese? You could be developing an immune reaction to the proteins in dairy (casein and whey). Such intolerances increase with age.
EASE UP ON EVENING WINE OR COCKTAILS.
One glass can help you wind down for bed, but more can keep you up and cause you to toss and turn all night, especially in women. Also, interrupting REM sleep can result in feeling tired, distracted, and unable to focus the next day.
