Fight fatigue this summer (one bite at a time)

It’s summer.

And if you’re anything like me, you want to “go, go, go!” before the season changes.

But for many of my patients, their energy levels create a serious roadblock.

If that sounds familiar, listen up…

Because research shows a simple shift could have you relishing in ALL your summertime plans in no time.

Spinach, fish, berries, and tea

The next time you indulge in sweet treats, carbs, or other junk foods, pay close attention to how you feel.

Because while we all know those choices aren’t good for our waistlines… you may not realize that they can do a number on your energy levels, to boot.

The good news is, polishing up those dietary choices could have you up and ready to roll in no time.

Let’s take a look at a few specifics…

First, be sure to enjoy plenty of anti-inflammatory foods in your diet.

See, inflammation can lead to adrenal fatigue (or “burn out”). In the simplest terms, this is a group of signs and symptoms that occurs when your adrenal glands aren’t working properly. Exhaustion sets in when stress overwhelms these glands.

And yes, this can occur when you follow a diet high in sugar and simple carbohydrates. Instead, choose anti-inflammatory foods.

In one study of 40 breast cancer survivors, researchers linked lower fatigue levels to higher intakes of anti-carotenoids, omega-3 fatty acids, and the antioxidant vitamins A and C, specifically.

Some examples of foods high in carotenoids include: Spinach, kale, tomatoes, red bel peppers, oranges, mangoes, and carrots.

Some examples of foods high in omega-3 fatty acids include: Wild-caught fish and seafood, walnuts, and eggs.

Some examples of foods high in antioxidants include: Berries, artichokes, red cabbage, and green tea.

Sweeter than sugar

Next up, let’s tackle the blood sugar connection.

It’s no secret that the Standard American Diet (SAD) is chock-full of “foods” that lead to a jolt of energy (“sugar rush”)—and end with an even harder crash.

But by maintaining more stable blood sugar levels, you’ll naturally enjoy more energy.

You can do that by reaching for whole foods, like grass-fed and -finished meat, organic poultry, fresh produce, nuts, eggs, and more.

More specifically, work on bumping up your intake of glutamine.

This amino acid provides energy to your muscles and other tissues. It inhibits the release of insulin when you have low blood sugar—and prevents you from experiencing a hard blood-sugar crash.

It also stimulates your body to release stored glucose (called glycogen) in order to get low blood sugar back on track. And it can act as a “stand-in” for sugar when your body really needs some energy.

In a nutshell, this amazing nutrient ensures your blood sugar never gets low enough that you’re ready to hit the panic button and run off to your favorite bakery or ice cream shop.

You can find glutamine in foods like beef, pork, poultry, cottage cheese, raw spinach, and more. Or you can opt to find a high-quality supplement. I recommend 500 mg, three times per day—or whenever a powerful sugar craving hits.

Source:

“Always tired? These foods can help.” MDLinx, 07/09/2024. (mdlinx.com/article/always-tired-these-foods-can-help/4PLNczvDVZUD7pJt1SKiMH)