Are you stuck in a health rut? Or just feeling a bit average? Winter has a way of messing with our energy levels, so it’s likely some (or many) of you are feeling a tad mediocre. Thankfully, a few simple diet tweaks may be all you need to feel a million times better. If you eat one or two of these nutritious – and delicious – foods today, you’ll have a much better chance of waking up energised tomorrow…
1. Salmon
Fish is generally great for your health, but according to Greg Goodman, Associate Professor at The Dermatology Institute of Victoria, salmon’s also “arguably the healthiest food going around for your skin”. Why? It’s rich in anti-inflammatory vitamin A as well as skin-plumping good fats (so you’ll look as fresh as you’ll feel).
bh tip: If you’re not a massive seafood fan, you can get the same benefits from salmon oil (try Swisse Ultiboost Salmon Oil).
2. Coconut oil
It’s no secret bh loves coconut oil for beauty reasons, but did you know it’s also a serious health booster? Keep it on hand for when those sugar cravings kick in – consuming it will help to boost your energy levels (and stabilise them, as it won’t cause an insulin spike in your blood stream). If you’re not keen on eating coconut oil straight from the jar, incorporate it into your cooking by using it in place of olive, vegetable or canola oil.
bh tip: Not all coconut oils are equal. Opt for an organic, cold-pressed, unrefined one for maximum health benefits.
- H2COCO Organic Virgin Coconut Oil ($12.99, 500mL, www.chemistwarehouse.com.au)
- Nature’s Way Super Foods Coconut Oil ($17.99, 450mL, www.priceline.com.au)
- Raw Superfoods 100% Virgin Organic Coconut Oil ($24.95, 710mL, www.shopnaturally.com.au)
3. Chlorophyll
It may not look appetising, but don’t knock chlorophyll till you’ve tried it. Not only does this natural wonder boost the oxygen levels in your red blood cells (which energises the body and lowers blood pressure), but it also detoxes and cleanses your blood for a total health overhaul. Brilliant! You can learn more about it here.
bh tip: Chlorophyll is best consumed in the form of fresh, leafy greens, but for a quick fix, try a powder or tablet version such as Swisse Ultiboost High Strength Chlorophyll+.
4. Warm water
Ok, this isn’t exactly a food, but drinking warm water (especially in the morning) is as good a health booster as any solid. According to ayurvedic medicine, it works to boost digestion by helping to break down food in our stomachs. Plus, it can also improve bowel movements and aid constipation, so drink up!
bh tip: To make plain water more interesting, turn it into tea (we like Thalgo Digestion Organic Infusion Tea and Aveda 100% Certified Organic Comforting Tea Bags).
5. Oats
Forget boring old cereal – a steaming bowl of oats is a way better brekkie. It contains a bunch of B vitamins, which are a proven mood stabiliser. To amp up the benefits, add a sprinkling of walnuts for a hit of endorphin-boosting omega-3s.
bh tip: For an extra energy (and taste) boost, mash up a banana and mix it through.
6. Wheatgrass
There’s a reason this pint-sized snack is a mainstay at health food outlets: it has a ridiculously concentrated amount of nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E, iron, calcium, magnesium and amino acids. Have it continuously and you can expect your energy levels to skyrocket!
bh tip: Skip the shopping queues and grow wheatgrass in your backyard. It only takes 7 days for the seeds to germinate and grow.
What foods do you eat to feel fabulous in a flash? What’s your all-time favourite healthy snack?
