What kind of lunch can give me more energy?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz answered:You may think that eating a heavy lunch saps you of energy, but the truth is that not eating enough can have an even worse impact. A new study found that eating too little at lunch led to emotional (feeling irritable and frustrated), physical (feeling tired and hungry), and cognitive (difficulty concentrating and poor decision making) symptoms.
Eating too little could even contribute to weight gain, as your body thinks food resources are low and begins storing what little you do eat as fat. You can reverse the negative effects of eating too little by adding a spelt salad to your midday meal. Spelt is a high-protein grain with a mellow, nutty flavor. Not only is spelt tasty and low in calories, but it’s rich in B vitamins, which are great for energy. It’s also a good source of fiber to keep your digestive tract moving. Mix the grain in with your choice of beans to double the protein and energy benefits of your lunch.You may think that eating a heavy lunch saps you of energy, but the truth is that not eating enough can have an even worse impact. A new study found that eating too little at lunch led to emotional (feeling irritable and frustrated),... More -
Toby Smithson of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics answered:The best combination of foods to give you more energy at lunch is protein and carbohydrate. Protein foods help keep you feeling full longer and carbohydrate is our immediate source of energy. A sandwich with a lean protein source, low fat cheese and crackers, cottage cheese and fruit, a veggie burrito with beans, or a salad with a lean protein and a muffin are all examples of carbohydrate and protein combinations. You will also want to make sure you are getting enough calories to have energy from your lunch meal.
The best combination of foods to give you more energy at lunch is protein and carbohydrate. Protein foods help keep you feeling full longer and carbohydrate is our immediate source of energy. A sandwich with a lean protein source, low fat cheese and... More -
RealAge answered:Here are three steps to an energized lunch:- Start with complex carbohydrates that are high in fiber, such as whole-grain breads and cereals, dried beans and peas, Brussels sprouts, oranges, and prunes. These will help keep blood sugars steady throughout the day by slowing digestion.
- Pair carbs with a little fat, mostly unsaturated. Dietary fat helps you maintain energy levels and absorb certain nutrients. Fat also slows gastric emptying and glucose release. Try corn tortillas topped with avocado and salsa or walnuts on a mixed-greens and garbanzo beans salad tossed with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Add lean protein to the mix; it has a low glycemic index and can help balance out the effects of quickly processed carbs. Try skinless poultry, lean meat, fish, tofu, eggs, dairy products, nuts, legumes, and whole grains.
Here are three steps to an energized lunch: Start with complex carbohydrates that are high in fiber, such as whole-grain breads and cereals, dried beans and peas, Brussels sprouts, oranges, and prunes. These will help keep blood sugars steady... More
