Vibrant Living Tip of the Week

Foods to Fight Fatigue...
Tired. Drained. Pooped. No matter how you put it, you're beat and need to drum up some energy. You are not alone. Many people have trouble getting in gear in the morning, experience the afternoon slump, or just want to crash on the couch in the evening. The exhaustion can be a constant problem for some folks. According to the CDC, 2.2 million Americans experience marked fatigue lasting at least six months. Sluggishness can be caused by many factors, but experts say poor nutrition is a big culprit. A well-balanced diet, on the other hand, can boost energy.

1. The forgotten meal: Research shows breakfast improves alertness and concentration, helps shed pounds by preventing overeating during the day, and prevents obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
2. Complex Carbohydrate Charge: The best way to maximize the body's potential for energy is to eat a combination of complex and simple carbohydrates. Foods such as whole grains and starchy vegetables such as potatoes, squash, pumpkin, and carrots fall into this category.
3. Fat Force: choose polyunsaturated fats such as vegetable oils and seafood, and monounsaturated fats such as olive oil, meat, and poultry. The unsaturated variety can help lower "bad" LDL cholesterol.
4. The Weight of Water: Dehydration is one of the leading causes of a lack of energy. If you're not well hydrated, your body puts its resources into maintaining your water balance instead of into giving you energy.

The amount of food you eat can also make a difference. If someone overeats constantly, they tend to gain more weight and become lethargic. Other dietary reasons for fatigue include too much alcohol (which is a depressant) and lack of certain vitamins and minerals. Low iron is a common problem for women. MORE