Feeling occasionally tired is normal for most people, especially if they put in a full day’s work. However, for others, fatigue is a constant problem. Even worse, many people feel tired when they haven’t even exerted enough energy during the day to be tired. Often it’s because of the foods they eat or don’t eat that contribute to their fatigue.
Foods That Trigger Fatigue
Carbohydrate foods high in fat or starches can cause fatigue. For example, fast foods, fried foods and pastas are common foods high in fat and carbohydrates. These foods can make you feel as if you need a nap after eating a meal. A general rule of thumb is that if something you eat makes you tired, you probably shouldn’t have eaten it. In refined carbohydrates the outer shell, containing most a food’s vitamins and minerals, has been removed.
Typical processed foods such as those containing sugar and white flour can cause fatigue, as well as affect blood sugar. There continues to be a link between artificial sweeteners and fatigue, in addition to memory loss. In fact, according to an article, "Aspartame and Pilots" by Russell Baylock,
airplane pilots are told not to use artificial sweeteners. Rather than reach for a cup of coffee, substitute it for a cup of green tea which provides energy.
Foods That Fight Fatigue
According to the Dietygoy.com website there are certain foods that that can fight fatigue
- Fruits and vegetables – Most nutritionists recommend eating at least five fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Fruit and vegetables can also be found in freshly made juices such as citrus drinks and vegetable juice. If possible buy organic produce that have less herbicidal resident and more nutrients.
- Lentils – Lentils such as beans are excellent fiber sources which results in glucose being released slower. What’s more, lentils contain iron, B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, zinc, calcium and copper. They provide both protein and carbohydrates, in addition to being low in calories and fat.
- Bell peppers – Because of its rich source of vitamin C, bell peppers produce energy by activating cellular metabolism.
- Oats - High in fiber, oats slow down glucose being absorbed into the bloodstream, fighting fatigue.
- Bananas – Besides being a rich source of simple complex carbohydrates, bananas also satisfy a sweet tooth.
- Green tea – Rich in theophylline, green tea stimulates the central nervous system and boosts alertness.
Additional Tips
Never throw a food product into your grocery basket without first reading the nutritional information. Also, too often people working long hours grab junk food rather than sit down for a balanced hot meal, besides eating dinner as late as 9 p.m. This only leads to the body feeling sluggish and tired. If possible, eat your main meal at midday rather than your last meal.
If you drastically improve your diet to include energy building foods, while eliminating energy draining foods, but still suffer from fatigue, then get a thorough medical examination. In other words, cover all bases to determine the cause of fatigue so you can start having more energy for a happier and more productive life.
 |
