Ever have trouble keeping your eyes open in the afternoon? It’s happened to us all. The hours after lunchtime can zap your energy, making it difficult to get work done and finish daily responsibilities. It also can lead you to skip an evening workout! So what causes this? Often it can be connected to the energy-draining foods we eat. Let’s look at some of the culprits so you can avoid them and get through your day with as much energy as you had in the morning!
6 Energy-Draining Foods
1) Baked goods, bagels and cereals:
Many foods like this are made with refined flours that can initially spike your energy by elevating blood sugar. Unfortunately, carbohydrates—especially those devoid of fiber—that you don’t use or burn off during the day will result in a drop in blood sugar. This leaves you with th
at all-too-familiar energy crash. Additionally, the sugar found in these food choices can lead to increased levels of tryptophan, which only further zaps your energy.
2) Caffeine:
Believe it or not, too much caffeine can steal your energy, especially as the initial buzz wears off. Your body also uses up energy during a caffeine high.
3) Candy and soda:
Just like the carbohydrate choices listed above, candy and sodas create a dramatic increase in blood sugar and an equally intense decrease in energy as soon as they are metabolized. As you can see, it’s important to choose the right foods at breakfast and lunch to stay energized throughout the day. While certain choices can help you feel amped at first, these are often the foods that leave you feeling sluggish in the afternoon. Opt for foods that consist of more complex carbohydrates, full of fiber and nutrients. And pair these carbs with healthy proteins and fats to stabilize blood sugar levels and help your body perform at an optimal level all day long!
