March is National Nutrition Month
Eating for Energy
Are you ready for a nap after lunch?
Do you need a daily caffeine pick-me-up to get through the day?
Too tired in the evenings to get off the couch?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, it might be from what you are eating, or not eating, that is dragging you down. Making the right food choices can mean the difference between sluggishness and sustained energy. Second only to lack of sleep, poor eating habits contribute significantly to fatigue. So what can you ear (or not eat) to help increase your energy?
Carbohydrates: All foods have energy because they contain calories. The one nutrient that the body turns to energy most rapidly is carbohydrate. However, carbohydrates can have their downsides too. Simple carbohydrates can be draining. You may get an instant energy boost but it is followed by an energy crash. Complex carbohydrates are a better fuel choice since they are digested gradually. The fiber in these foods helps to slow their absorption. High fiber foods allow you to feel better and avoid energy drain and irritability.
Simple carb examples: fat free sweets, sugar coated cereals, regular soft drinks, fruit juices, foods made with sugar and white refined flour
Complex Carbohydrates: Remember these are better than the simple carbs: whole grain cereals, whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, baked potato with the skin, brown rice, fresh whole fruits and vegetable, oatmeal, granola
Ask your students what they have learned during lunchtime about “Choose my plate”. I have been going in during the lunches to give them daily “Munching Minutes” where facts are given about nutrition. Let’s join together and keep our kids healthy, happy, and successful!