Staying energized through your busy work day is a challenge so many of us face. Who hasn’t experienced the 3 pm slump where you’re tired, unfocused and find yourself reaching for the coffee pot (or worse the cookie jar)? Keeping your energy levels up at work is not only important for productivity, it also means you’re less likely to chomp away on some sugary junk food. While a sweet treat might give you a quick boost, it will ultimately send your energy levels crashing; leaving you way worse off than you were before!
Avoid the 3 pm slump AND the of temptations of a junk food splurge by carrying natural, nutrient-rich foods with you when you’re on the go. Here are five energy boosting foods you MUST carry to your workplace.
- Fruit
Nature’s candy is a great energizing snack because yes, there’s sugar for energy, but the naturally high fiber content of unprocessed fruit means you’ll avoid the slump that goes hand in hand with other sweet treats. Packed with energizing antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, apples, bananas, and pears are all easily portable and completely delicious. Consider partnering with a single serve sachet of almond or peanut butter to add a healthy dose of fats which will slow down your body’s absorption of the sugar and keep your energized (and satiated) even longer.
- Almonds
A handful of almonds is another healthy snack that will enhance your energy levels on the go. While they are calorific, almonds definitely provide a big nutritional bang for your buck. Amongst other things, they contain magnesium (which not only has energy boosting properties but supports the immune system and relieves stress) and vitamin B2 (which can help convert dietary energy into the form your body uses). They also contain a healthy dose of protein and fiber to stabilize your blood sugar and slows digestion; giving you steady reserves over time. Plus, the healthy fats can keep you feeling full and prevent overeating.
- Homemade Trail Mix
It’s so easy to make your own trail mix by throwing together some nuts, seeds, dark chocolate and dried fruit. As well as almonds, macadamia nuts and pecans will add some oomph since they are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Dark chocolate is also great for an energy kick since it contains caffeine and theobromine which both stimulate your central nervous system. Also bringing a hefty amount of protein, fiber and healthy fats, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are more great energy powerhouses to throw into the mix (literally).
- Edamame
Edamame or soybeans are easy to carry to work since you can eat them right out of the shell. One cup gives you 57% of your recommended daily amount of protein, 43% of your daily omega-3 fatty acids, 41% of your daily amount of fiber, and 49% of your daily iron, all of which help you stay upbeat and energized. They are also rich in molybdenum which enhances alertness, improves concentration, and helps balance blood sugar levels.
- Jeca Bars
Energy bars often get a bad rap because so many are highly processed and full of sugar. But Jeca Energy Bars are different: they’re a convenient, natural and healthy way to get an energy boost. Made using small-batch techniques with high-quality, energizing ingredients like almonds, dates, matcha, and seeds, you can trust they will keep you focused and full!