Orlando, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — We all count on food to power us through the day, but some meals may be doing just the opposite. new research shows certain foods can spike your energy and then suddenly drain it. Whether it’s in the office, or in class, food is fuel, until it isn’t.
“Everybody’s in a rush. Everybody wants fast food and everything,” said Rukhsana Shanbhag, Registered Dietitian.
Studies show up to one in four Americans experience excessive daytime sleepiness and what you eat may be a big factor. So, which foods are energy zappers?
First, fruits like bananas. If they’re overripe, they’re full of sugar and can cause a quick spike, followed by a crash.
“You’re going to get a lot of sugar and that again, will do the same thing as eating, you know, some candy or something,” explained Shanbhag.
Those carbohydrate meals can fill you up fast …
“It will raise your blood insulin levels to clear it out and then sometimes people have a drop in your glucose levels and then that can make you sleepy,” said Shanbhag.
Salt-dried snacks and pickled vegetables can leave you feeling sluggish too.
“Too much salt can make you thirsty and they can dehydrate you,” explained Shanbhag.
Dietitians say the best way to beat that midday slump is to fill up on energy-boosting foods like oatmeal for steady carbs, eggs for protein, leafy greens for iron and nutrients, unsalted almonds for healthy fats, and apples for natural, slow-release energy. These choices keep your blood sugar stable and your focus sharp.
Shanbhag recommends balancing lunches with protein, healthy fats, and vegetables. She says roasted chickpeas or avocado toast are great snack options. They won’t spike your blood sugar and can help keep your energy steady. and here’s a tip, if your banana still has a touch of green, it’s actually a starchy food that’s good for your gut.
Contributors to this news report include: Cliff Tumetel, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor.
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