As you flop on your couch, lie down and stare at the ceiling, you wonder why you are so exhausted. It was not the day that had been longer or more eventful than usual so what’s making you feel so tired?
Summers are one of the biggest causes for energy depletion. The obvious solution, of course, is to drink a lot of fluids: 10-12 glasses a day is not just preferred, it’s mandatory. Mix it up as well. Top up with chaas, nimboo paani, and the like to have a productive day. But that’s not why I’m writing this column. My point is that what and how you eat could also be the reason of your fatigue.
The best way to explain the relationship between energy levels and nutrition would be to understand it in terms of your blood sugar levels. Your blood sugar level needs to be stable through the day for you to feel energetic. Certain foods help keep it stable while others spike it (making you super energetic in the short term) and then send it crashing down (making you feel so tired at the end of the day, that it’s hard for you to even lift your finger), not to mention the temper flares.
Sugary and High GI foods, like cakes, chocolate, sweets, sugary drinks, cocktails, white flour etc., spike your blood sugar. Opt for the following slow-release sugars and eating habits to feel better.
1. FRUIT
You’d be surprised at how beautifully fruit helps you feel energised and active. About three medium-sized seasonal fruits a day -each eaten at different times and at least two hours apart -is a great and fairly unobtrusive way to snack with benefits.
2. FRESH VEGETABLES
Whether you make a salad or a freshly cooked bhaji, eat them as a main dish or include them as a sneaky side show, invite more fresh vegetables in your life. In addition to managing your sugar levels, they overflow with vital vitamins and minerals, which are good for you. During peak summer, I prefer my veggies raw, sans he extra masalas and garlic-ginger paste chop them finely, add some healthy sprouts, chat masala and fresh coriander chutney. Chilled yogurt and rice can be happy adjuncts to make a complete meal.
3. VEGETABLE JUICES
Even unsweetened fruit juices are high in sugar. Vegetable juices work brilliantly to keep your body functioning well. Blend three different raw vegetables in a mixie. Add half the pulp back to the juice, top up with water, and season to taste. Drink daily.
4. GOOD QUALITY PROTEIN
Egg whites and lean protein are key to beating fatigue. Red meats have a lot of saturated fats and the body takes more effort and time to digest it, ultimately making you feel sluggish.
5. BREAK UP YOUR MEALS
Eating every two hours works brilliantly to manage your sugar levels, giving you a moderated supply of energy throughout the day. All you have to do is break up your three square meals into smaller meals; it’s really that easy.
