By Jake Bekemeyer– Gleaners Nutrition Education Team
Food fuels our bodies and our brains. But the type of food you choose can influence whether you feel fueled, energized, and ready to take on the day, or whether you feel sluggish and slowed down. To feel your best, try these food swaps below.
Breakfast, as the first meal of the day, sets the tone for your energy and focus, so making sure you fuel your brain properly is essential. While caffeine and sugary options may give you a quick boost, a balanced breakfast will provide longer lasting, steady energy.
Instead of sugary cereal, try oatmeal or shredded wheat. Swap juice for whole fruits, and coffee for green tea, herbal tea, or water. And instead of donuts or pastries, whole wheat toast or bagels with low-fat cream cheese or peanut butter are great options.
And we can’t forget about eggs. Eggs are great for any meal, but in the morning, a quick scramble or microwaved mug of eggs can provide eggscelent energy, protein, and healthy fats.
Lunch is another meal that can feel rushed sometimes, especially when you aren’t eating at home. Options like chips, soda, candy, and fast food are quick, easy, and tasty options, but don’t provide the lasting energy we need to get through the day.
Instead of a fast-food burger, try a veggie wrap or turkey sandwich. Instead of candy, choose fruit. Replace soda with water or milk, and chips with peanuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, or any other nut or seed you like!
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