Eat This / Not That

by: David Zinczenko

When You Need More Energy

EAT THIS:  CLAMS

Clams stock your body with magnesium, which is important in metabolism, nerve function, and muscle function.  When magnesium levels are low, your body produces more lactic acid ~ the same fatigue-inducing substance that you feel at the end of a long workout.

EAT THIS: GRILLED CHICKEN BREAST

The protein in lean meat like chicken, fish, or pork loin isn't just vital in squashing hungar and boosting metalbolism, it's also a top source of energy.  University of Illinois researchers found that people who ate higher amounts of protein had higher energy and didn't feel as tired as people with proportionally higher amounts of carbs in their diet.

EAT THIS:  KIDNEY BEANS

These legumes are an excellent source of thiamin and riboflavin.  Both these vitamins help your body use energy efficiently, so you won't be nodding off mid PowerPoint. 

EAT THIS:  BARLEY

Swedish researchers found that if you eat barley for breakfast, the fibrous grain cuts blood sugar response by 44 percent at lunch and 14 percent at dinner.  And the less your sugar spikes, the more stable your energy levels will be.

NOT THAT:  BAGELS

MIT researchers analyzed blood samples from people who had eaten either a high-protein or a high-carbohydrate breakfast.  Two hours after eating, the carb eaters had tryptophan levels 14 percent higher than before, and the people who had eaten protein decreased levels by 28 percent.  The higher your tryptophan level, the more likely you are to feel tired and sluggish.  That means fewer waffles, pancakes, and muffins and more eggs and oatmeal.

Enjoy the upcoming week

& continue to wear your AFA pin,

Brenda Barrall (MEC P) & Dell Kean (MEC VP)