Try the energy diet
Tired all the time or feeling drained of energy? You’re not alone. Nutritionist DALE PINNOCK explains how changing your diet can help, and shares delicious recipes that will give you back your spark
A LITTLE bit of fatigue is perfectly normal, but some of us seem to be in a state of near-constant tiredness. In fact, studies have suggested the average Brit spends nearly three hours a day feeling low in energy.
Thankfully, many of the factors that have been linked to increased fatigue are within our control. And poor diet is believed to be a big contributor.
But the good news is that just a few simple changes to what you eat can make a big difference.
FOLLOW A LOW GI DIET
One of the fastest ways to zap your energy is to experience frequent blood sugar swings.
Foods that release energy rapidly, such as refined carbohydrates, cause blood sugar to rise sharply, then crash, leaving you tired and sluggish.
Instead, choose foods to release energy slowly, and combine them to slow this down even more.
Try combining a wholegrain complex carbohydrate, fresh vegetables, lean protein and good fats at every meal.
INCREASE VITAMIN B
They are vital for energy production, but B vitamins are among the most commonly deficient nutrients.
They are abundant in many foods but are easily destroyed in cooking and processing.
When glucose enters our cells, it has to be converted into a substance called ATP, which is what cells actually run on. B vitamins help with this process.
Find them in wholegrains, mushrooms and asparagus.
Many of the factors that have been linked to increased fatigue are within our control. And poor diet is believed to
be a big contributor
Nutritionist Dale Pinnock, pictured left
EAT LITTLE AND OFTEN
It’s better to eat small meals every couple of hours instead of three big meals or to keep skipping them.
Eating every couple of hours will keep blood sugar levels topped up and nutrients coming in.
STAY HYDRATED
Even slight dehydration can deplete energy levels. Try to drink six to eight glasses of water a day.