Most people start their day with a nice, hot cup of coffee. Others have more than just the breakfast portion – adding a mid-morning coffee, afternoon coffee and sometimes a late night coffee to the mix. While you may need a pick-me-up multiple times a day, drinking too much coffee can be harmful to your health. Medical Daily said it can cause severe anxiety and hallucinations, muscle spasms, restlessness and even osteoporosis.
If you’re working all day and you need to find energy to hit the gym later, don’t assume you have to slam back the java for energy. There are plenty of foods that can invigorate you just as much as caffeine.
Cut back on the espresso this week and try these energizing alternatives to coffee.
1. Nuts
Healthline said nuts are a great source of protein, fiber and nutrients. Pack yourself a peanut butter sandwich on whole wheat bread for a quick and satisfying lunch that can replace your usual afternoon coffee. If you need a pick-me-up late morning or late afternoon, try a handful of mixed nuts for a snack. Be sure not to overdo it, as the source said most nuts are high in calories. Pay attention to the serving size to balance your nutrition throughout the day.
Grab a handful of mixed nuts for an energizing afternoon snack.2. Honey
In need of a sweet treat? Honey is a great natural sweetener that is low on the glycemic index, according to Women’s Day magazine. Just a spoonful of this treat is comparable to an energy drink. It can act as muscle fuel for your fitness routine or even post-workout replenishment. Drizzle this sweet stuff on your oatmeal or yogurt for a quick and easy breakfast.
3. Bananas
This yellow fruit is made up of sugar – glucose, fructose and sucrose – and fiber, making it a powerhouse for fueling an energy buzz. For an extra boost, add a spoonful of almond butter to your banana for the perfect afternoon snack. If you’re feeling tired on your way to the gym, eat a banana as a quick snack.
“Egg yolks are rich in B-vitamins.”
4. Eggs
Lisa Moskovitz, RD, told Men’s Fitness magazine that egg yolks are rich in B-vitamins, which convert food into energy. Instead of making a pot of coffee for breakfast, cook yourself a spinach and egg omelet. If you need an energy boost before your fitness class, eat a hard-boiled egg.
5. Yogurt
Women’s Day magazine said yogurt isn’t only rich in magnesium – which helps release energy – but it’s also a great way to add calcium to your diet. This healthy option is great for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Just add nuts, seeds or honey for an extra boost of flavor.
6. Pumpkin seeds
If you love the idea of getting energy from a snack, you’re in luck. Naturopathic Doctor and Nutritionist Lindsey Duncan told Men’s Fitness magazine that pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats and fiber, which all contribute to energizing you for longer periods of time. Add a handful of pumpkin seeds to a cup of oatmeal or mixed nuts for a great snack or breakfast alternative.
7. Sweet potato
If you’re looking for a vegetable that can energize you, try a sweet potato. Women’s Day Magazine said this sweet, orange root vegetable is high in carbohydrates, vitamin A and vitamin C, which are great for giving you a boost of energy. Sweet potatoes can be enjoyed in many ways – mashed, diced, or cut even into French fries.
