Healthy Chicks

Today we’re going to discuss something some of us have, many of us want more of, and all of us need: ENERGY.

Have you ever observed children running around, who seem to have all the energy and life in the world and wonder, “How can I get some of that?” On the other hand, so very often we see business professionals completely drained by the stresses of the workday, mom’s suffering from extreme fatigue, and college students relying on energy drinks to keep them “going.”

What gives? How can we get our energy levels back up in order to feel healthy and alive again?

While there are a number of reasons for low energy levels (including emotional, mental, physical and chemical stress), today I’d like to focus on one of my favorite topics: food. More specifically, I’m going to show you how you can increase your energy levels almost instantly through your diet!

1. Avoid or limit your intake in processed foods, caffeinated beverages, artificial sweeteners, sugary treats and heavy red meats, all of which can drain your energy if consumed in excess. Remember, you don’t need to change your diet overnight as it’s all about baby steps. Try replacing one can of diet coke a day with a glass of water instead, and then work your way up to more! Or perhaps switch out your afternoon java trip for a cup of green tea, which can help boost your energy levels a little bit more naturally.
2. Load up on water, and be sure to carry a water bottle with you throughout the day to keep yourself hydrated all day long. Consider drinking a cup of warm water with lemon at the beginning of the day to give yourself an energizing boost, and help cleanse your liver. If you don’t love the taste of plain water, try sprucing it up with mint, citrus fruit or berries.
3. Eat clean, whole foods as much as possible. Clean to me means as close to its natural state as possible, with limited added ingredients. This means choosing whole grain quinoa or rolled oats instead of granola bars or instant breakfast; whole raw fruits rather than fruit flavored beverages; lean organic meats in place of microwavable frozen dinners or takeout; sprouts and beans versus a canned, sodium-packed veggie. Eating clean makes you feel clean, rejuvenated and alive! Also, attempt to eat in season when you can for ultimate nutritional value.
4. Go Nuts: Sometimes low energy levels are sign that our magnesium levels are low. Try snacking on a healthy portion of nuts throughout the day, particularly almonds, cashews and brazil nuts, which are highest in magnesium.
5. Stock up on leafy greens like kale, spinach, collard greens and swiss chard. Sneak greens into veggie-packed green smoothies in the morning, salads at lunch, or a steamed side at dinner. (All you need is a little garlic, lemon and sea salt for a delicious and low-calorie side!) I love making nutrient-packed green smoothies with my high-speed Vitamix blender*

Note: If you are interested in purchasing your own Vitamix, simply follow this link or enter code 06-007907 at checkout for FREE shipping.

6. Shoot for More Superfoods!: Superfoods are the superheroes of health food, as they provide a whole gamut of health benefits. My favorites for energy include Cacao (in powder or whole form like in the recipe below), Gogi Berries (perfect trail mix staple), Maca (Great in powder form to add into smoothies and shakes) and Bee Pollen and Honey (go for raw, unrefined forms).

Healthy Chick’s Energize-Me Trail Mix

• 1 c. raw almonds
• 1 c. raw walnuts
• ½ c. shredded organic coconut, unsweetened
• ½ c. dark semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ c. cacao nibs
• ½ c. raw gogi berries

XoXo,