One way to improve your energy levels is by eating the right combinations of nutrients.
Here are a few ways that your diet might be affecting your energy:
You Skip Breakfast.
Evidence shows that eating something for breakfast is a good idea and those that don’t are reported to have lower energy, poorer moods and reduced memory. (For some protein rich breakfast recipes please download my free eBook).
You Use Caffeine To Stay Alert.
One or two cups of coffee or tea a day is fine but if you are reliant on caffeine it can cause energy fluctuations and overstimulate the nervous system. Caffeine blocks the action of adenosine, a brain chemical that causes drowsiness by slowing down nerve-cell activity. Avoid caffeine after lunch as it can disrupt sleep in some people.
Your Diet Contains Too Many Refined Carbohydrates.
Carbohydrate-rich foods are turned into blood glucose which is used by the body as energy. Highly processed, refined carbs (e.g., white bread, pasta, sweets and sugary drinks) are metabolised quickly and can cause large spikes in blood glucose followed by sharp drops, which can bring on fatigue. Sugar also blocks the activity of orexin-producing cells, brain cells that stimulate wakefulness.
You Skip Lunch
Are you too busy to stop for lunch? If you go for too long without food your blood sugar will drop which can make you feel tired and grumpy.
You Don’t Drink Enough Water
Water is essential as it help to circulate oxygen and nutrients around your body, even a small amount of dehydration can lead to symptoms such as fatigue and headaches.
You Drink Alcohol After Dinner.
Although a drink before bed might help you to fall to sleep alcohol actually disrupts the quality of sleep by reducing the time we spend in REM sleep which is important for memory and learning. So even though you might be getting 8 hours sleep you still wake feeling unrefreshed.
If you would like to chat about how a personalised nutrition plan could help improve your energy please drop me an email - caren@penarthnutrition.co.uk