Adios long summer days! Can you believe the sun is now setting on the east coast at 4:59pm—only adding further insult to the 4pm slump!? Fight fatigue and a mid-day case of the sleeps with these 8 foods.
1. Water: Drinking plenty of water in the winter months is a must. Much of the time when we're feeling tired (and hungry for that matter) we are actually just dehydrated. Dehydration can also ruin concentration and sour your mood, so drink up friends
2. Chia Seeds: Add these puppies to your smoothies or oatmeal for wintertime energy boost. Loaded with omega-3's and with a perfect fat to protein ratio, it's no wonder they're the superfood of choice for many athletes. Plus, they can hold up to 10X their weight in water, providing a much-needed assist to all that water drinking.
3. Quinoa: This ancient grain of the Andeas is a pseudograin and it often called a protein grain because of it's amino acid profile. It's perfect as a side dish, or even as a main course in the cooler months. Just don't forget to work in the veggies!
4. Green Tea: Green tea provides a nice caffeine boost but without all the jitters of throwing back a few espressos. The combo of caffeine plus L-theanine gives you an energy and a brain boost. We'll take it!
5. Oatmeal: Overnight oats, oatmeal and oatmeal protein bites are all fair game and a great way to boost your energy right now. Thanks to their low glycemic load and the healthy dose of fiber and protein, oats a real wonder food.
6. Almonds: You've heard me talk about the benefits of good fats and their role in a balanced blood sugar and almonds are full of good fats. The monounsaturated fats are a great source of fuel and keep you fuller, longer.
7. Black Beans: Black beans boast a great balance of carbs, protein and fiber. The protein fills you up while the fiber keeps you sated and helps to balance your blood sugar. Opt for a great chili with black beans or even black bean pasta.
8. Lean Protein: Chicken breasts, wild caught fish and turkey are all great sources of lean protein to fuel you in the cooler months. A Turkey chili, roasted chicken or baked salmon are all great options!