Superfoods stand out from the rest of the foods because they contain more vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and nutrients in general, while being relatively low in calories. They have the ability to strengthen our immune system, slow down the aging process and increase energy . Precisely on this last benefit we will be speaking in today’s article. Let’s see a list of 10 super foods that you should include in your diet if you are in need of a healthy energy injection.
10 super foods to increase your energyUnrefined cocoaBlack chocolate or unrefined pure cocoa is very good for health and to increase energy levels. It is rich in antioxidants, magnesium, iron, chromium, manganese, zinc, copper, vitamin C, phosphorus, among other minerals. It also contains tryptophan , which helps produce serotonin; Serotonin is the so-called happiness hormone because it reduces anxiety and has the same effect as love in our brain. That is the reason why chocolate is so used as a gift on Valentine’s Day. Cocoa can be included in numerous recipes, for example smoothies, homemade versions of desserts, oatmeal preparations. (It may be of interest to you: How to use cocoa to prevent heart disease and cancer )Chia seedsChia is a seed originally from Mexico whose use dates back to the Mayan and Aztec cultures. Chia means strength and it is not difficult to discover why. Chia seeds are a superfood that provides quick energy .
They contain omega-3 fatty acids , carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, antioxidants and calcium. They are very versatile, since we can add them in almost any preparation; spread them over your salads, smoothies, fruits, oatmeal-based dishes, vegetable drinks and yoghurts. A curious fact about chia is that when it comes into contact with liquid substances, it generates a gelatinous covering around it; If we let a glass of water or milk to which we have added a chia mint, we can see howthe liquid acquires a consistency between solid and gelatinous .
(See: 10 reasons to start eating chia seeds )Coconut waterAnother good superfood to increase energy is coconut water. Did you know that ½ glass of coconut water contains more potassium than a banana and much less sugar? It is also rich in electrolytes , minerals that are naturally found in body fluids, such as plasma, and are responsible for maintaining the balance of fluids in the body.SpirulinaSpirulina is a green-blue alga rich in beta-carotenes and amino acids. Dry spirulina contains approximately 65% protein and zero cholesterol.
It is a complete protein that contains all the essential amino acids . Besides being very nutritious, it is high in chlorophyll and iron, in antioxidants , beta-carotenes and omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids . It is a great superfood to increase energy because it releases sugar from cells and prevents it from Store in the form of fat.Spirulina can be obtained as a supplement and as a powder; This last variant is absorbed directly in the body, so it is considered the most powerful option. It can be mixed in shakes, juices or even with a glass of water. (See: How to increase your health by consuming algae )BananasBananas are the perfect food to maintain a diet high in energy.
This fruit contains abundant potassium and tryptophan, which as we have seen previously, increases serotonin levels in the body. In addition to the energy benefit, you should know that numerous studies have talked about the importance of consuming banana on a regular basis because potassium is a mineral that lowers blood pressure , protects against hardening of the arteries , prevents strokes , increases health of the bones and improves the general health of the heart. (See: A breakfast with banana that will favor your health ; Health problems that bananas can solve)Goji BerriesGoji berries are rich in proteins, amino acids and minerals such as vitamin B1, B2, B6, E and C, as well as in antioxidants known to improve vision , increase libido , sexual function and stimulate the immune system . I recommend you consume this superfood to increase energy whenever you can; add them in your shakes, in the breakfast oatmeal, in the salads and desserts.
(See: Benefits of the goji berry for diabetes )Maca powderMaca is a Peruvian root that belongs to the radish family. It is used as food and medicine since the time of the Incas. It is rich in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, vitamin B1, B2, C, E, iron and minerals such as zinc and selenium, hence helping to treat conditions such as anemia , fatigue, depression , poor memory , tuberculosis and malnutrition.Maca powder is an excellent food for women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome or hot flashes during menopause.
It also promotes fertility, increases libido, decreases stress levels, provides energy and resistance . You can incorporate it into your diet easily if you add it to your smoothies, juices, oatmeal preparations, desserts, etc.
