Introduce to Healthy Snacks to Boost Energy
Ever since the Coronavirus spread across the world, almost everyone is stuck inside their homes. Things have changed because people are forced to adapt to the new normal – work-from-home set up, and Zoom university; and because of these circumstances, most people are not getting enough exercise and adventure. Lockdowns have been imposed, travel has been banned, and movement from one place to another has been limited. Even family celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, special holidays have been affected by the virus.
A year after, the pandemic is still taking its toll on everyone financially, mentally, and also physically. Today, people are learning how to value their health more. After months inside their homes, people are finding and learning new hobbies, and one of the popular options is working out or doing exercise. And because most people are stuck inside their homes in front of their computers, they realize the need to relax and stretch those muscles from time to time.
Healthy Snacks to Boost Your Energy
It is not a myth that for a person who is on his fitness journey, a balanced diet and proper exercise are the best combinations. During this pandemic, supplies have been limited but we listed down easy-to-find healthy snacks you can munch on when you exercise.
This list will never make you feel guilty rather it will boost your energy so you can exercise more.
Bananas
If you search the Internet, what healthy snacks are recommended to boost energy, you will see that all lists have bananas. This super fruit is a good option because it is packed with nutrients and it is easy to carry around. An average-sized banana contains around 30g of carbs and around half of which are sugars. Bananas are also high in potassium and magnesium making them easy to digest and light for your stomach before you hit the gym.
Coffee
Whenever you are sleepy or lacking energy, coffee or tea is the go-to energy booster any time of the day.
Caffeine inhibits the activity of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that quiets the central nervous system allowing you to feel recharged when you are tired or sleepy. A cup of coffee has two calories per cup but its stimulatory effects can make you feel alert and focused for some time.
However, coffee is not for all. You should take note of the effects of caffeine on your system.
Dark Chocolate
Did you know that there are actual chocolate health benefits aside from satisfying your sweet tooths? In particular, dark chocolate has a higher cocoa content over white and milk chocolates and this advantage gives this type of chocolate better health benefits.
Cocoa is packed with antioxidants which results in better brain and muscle functions, helping you to boost your energy during exercise. Moreover, antioxidants cause better blood flow reducing mental fatigue and improving mood.
Eggs
Eggs are packed with vitamins and protein, which particularly gives your active body a steady and sustained source of energy. Leucine is also present in eggs. It is an amino acid that helps in stimulating energy production in several ways.
Also, hard-boiled eggs are easy to prepare and to grab when you have a tight schedule in preparing your food before hitting the gym.
Oatmeal
Another easy to prepare healthy snack is oatmeal. This whole-grain cereal can provide you long-lasting energy for the day or before you exercise.
Oatmeal has beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that forms a thick gel when combined with water. The gel delays your stomach from emptying and the absorption of glucose into the blood. Also, oatmeal is packed with vitamins and minerals perfect for an active body.
Yogurt
If you want an easy and versatile healthy snack, opt for yogurt. It has simple sugars, such as lactose and galactose which can provide ready-to-use energy. Protein is also present in yogurt.
These slightly sour snack packs are easy to mix and match with berries, cereals, and other healthy snacks for additional taste and texture inside your mouth.
Avocados
Who doesn’t know the popular avocado toast? It has been a great alternative snack for health and fitness enthusiasts. It is considered by many as a superfood.
Avocados are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and fiber. These combinations of nutrients are great energy sources. Additionally, the fiber in avocados accounts for 80% of their carb content, which can help maintain steady energy levels
Nuts
Nuts are another versatile healthy snack. It can be mixed with your yogurt, chocolate, or you can munch it as is.
It is high in proteins which helps you to fuel your muscles while you work out. It is also packed with unsaturated fats or good fats. This snack is a great alternative if you are craving some junk food.
Also, nuts have a wide variety and each variety differs in its benefits and content. Almonds are high in vitamin E, good for maintaining healthy skin and bones, Brazil nuts are an excellent source of selenium, important for thyroid function, while walnuts are high in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Berries
Berries are rich in antioxidants meaning they can reduce inflammation and soreness in your muscles after a hard training session. This snack also has natural sugar and is high in fiber which is not a bad thing for someone who is on a strict diet.
Berries are good to mix with yogurt instead of packing and snacking in the gym.
Leafy Vegetables
Of course, aside from fruits, leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale are excellent sources of nutrients that give you enough energy to be active and exercise. Vegetables are high in vitamins and minerals, as well as, folic acid, fiber, and antioxidants.
Conclusion
There is still a health threat around us so taking care of our body and boosting our immune system is one of the best options to lessen the threat. Always remember that a proper diet is important if you want to function more efficiently during these times of pandemic.
