Energy Enhancing Super Foods

The top 6 energy enhancing super foods that will leave you buzzing

By Sarah Owens

If you are like most people, you are experiencing an energy crisis. In a study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, the prevalence of fatigue in the work place over a two week period of time in the U.S. was 37.9% and 65.7% of workers reported health related lost productive time, resulting in millions of dollars of lost profits. Fatigue can be defined as extreme tiredness, typically resulting from mental or physical exertion or illness. It is obvious that most people are running on fumes while masking these symptoms with coffee and red bull. Drinking caffeine and red bull is similar to using a band-aid for a bullet wound; eventually your adrenal glands will fatigue and you will experience a major crash.

In order to get long lasting energy and support for your body it is important to add as many nutrient-dense and life enhancing foods as possible. The best way to get the nutrients you need is to add super foods in to your diet. Super foods are nutrient dense foods that pack a powerful array of antioxidants and essential nutrients. They are energy powerhouses that allow your body and brain to stay energized and focused throughout the day.

 The top 6 energy enhancing super foods to add in your diet daily are:

Bee pollen
Bee pollen has a tremendous number of benefits for your body. It provides B vitamins, carbohydrates, and amino acids to enhance stamina and fight off fatigue. Local bee pollen can also treat allergies and has an anti-inflammatory effect on the tissues and lungs. It is an immune booster, aids digestion and can also help with infertility. You can get bee pollen at your local health store or farmers market. Take a few granules to start daily and increase to one teaspoon under your tongue. It is important to know that if you have any allergic reactions to bee stings, you can have the same reaction to bee pollen. Start with a small amount to check your reaction. Store your bee pollen in the fridge for long-term storage.

Raw organic cocoa nibs
Organic cocoa nibs are a powerful antioxidant that can serve as an antidepressant and have been shown to boost cognitive performance. Researchers at the University of L’Aquila in Italy recently published findings that suggest high levels of cocoa consumption in the elderly may help with mild cognitive impairment. Raw cocoa nibs contain essential nutrients such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium. They also contain compounds that increase circulation and the growth of blood vessels, which can help bring the brain more oxygen and improve cognitive function.

When purchasing cocoa, make sure to purchase high-quality raw, organic, cocoa or cocoa nibs for the best effects. Recent lab studies by Natural News have shown that organic cocoa powder can contain a high amount of heavy metals and it is best to purchase cocoa nibs since they have been shown to have a lower amount of heavy metals. You can mix cocoa nibs in with your smoothies or process with raw walnuts and dates to prepare a natural chocolate truffle.

Chlorella
Chlorella has a powerful detox effect on the body and it is a great addition to any diet. Mark Drucker, M.D. from the Center for Advanced Medicine stated that chlorella is one of the best overall nutritional products a person can take. Chlorella contains nine essential amino acids and is full of vitamins and minerals. Chlorella is also an incredible source of chlorophyll, which has been shown to deliver a continuous energy transfusion into your bloodstream by increasing the cell’s oxygen delivery system. Chlorella is an amazing energy booster. Make sure to purchase “broken cell” chlorella as it is the only type our body can process and utilize.

Matcha green tea
Matcha green tea has ten times the antioxidants of a normal cup of green tea. It contains an organic compound known as catechins, which is one of the most potent and beneficial antioxidants of all. Matcha green tea boosts memory and concentration and increases both energy levels and endurance. When purchasing, make sure to get a high-quality, organic version. Take one teaspoon a day in warm water for maximum benefit.

Chia Seeds
Chia means “strength” in the Mayan language and chia seeds were a staple of the Aztec diet as an energy food and supplement. They have also been known to ancient cultures as “Indian Running Food,” because they were provided as a snack during long runs or into battle. They contain a plethora of nutrients including calcium, Omega-3s, and antioxidants. They aid in detoxing the body by swelling and absorbing toxins in your body when consumed and cleansing the digestive tract. Add 1-2 tablespoons or more into your diet for the amazing health benefits and added energy.

Maca
Maca is a root from the radish family found in Peru. It has been used by ancient cultures for centuries for health and longevity. It contains significant amounts of amino acids, zinc, magnesium and the energy vitamins B1, B2, B12, C, and E. This amazing root enhances endocrine functions in the body, increasing sexual function, and aiding digestion, energy levels, and the brain. For optimal benefits add 1-2 teaspoons or more daily into a smoothie or juice.

For more information on how to eat to gain more energy check out the Ultimate Energy Diet.