By Thomas Wong
Make the most of your summer by feeding your body right. Here are some of the best foods and drinks to snack on if you would like to…
FEEL ENERGIZED:
Summer excitement and activities can tire anyone out, so why not try one of the following?
Fresh Fruit
Bananas, apples, or grapes are good for a quick sugar boost. The natural sugar that these offer also last much longer than artificially sweetened snacks, which will actually end up making you feel more tired.
Skimmed Milk
Similar to fruit, skimmed milk will ensure that you will have a steady supply of sugar (and energy!) in your blood stream.
Water
Dehydration is the most common reason for fatigue, so try drinking at least 6 cups a day.
GET TO BED
Need some sleep? Try eating foods that contain tryptophan. Tryptophan helps to produce serotonin, which is essential for sleep and has even been referred to as the “sleep hormone.” These foods are high in tryptophan:-
– Meat (especially turkey)
– Cheese (especially Swiss and cheddar)
– Regular 2% Fat Milk
FIGHT A COLD
Although getting enough rest is often the best remedy to fight off any illness, these foods can help you fend off that cold:
Vitamin C
Some think that this works with your immune system, making your cold symptoms less severe and shortening the time in which you stay sick.
Garlic
This is thought to destroy free radicals, which damage your cells and can lengthen the time you’re sick.
Fluids
Almost any kind of fluid helps to wash out toxins from your system.
LOOK YOUR BEST
Over time, eating certain foods can affect your physical appearance too. Notice a change by regularly eating one of the following:
Seafood
The high quality and low fat protein from seafood helps make your skin more elastic and even in tone. It will make your hair stronger and shinier too.
Vitamin E
Food rich in this vitamin, such as broccoli, spinach, mango and peanuts, will help prevent dry skin and repair and reduce the appearance of scars or other blemishes.
Berries
Cranberries and blueberries are a rich source of antioxidants, which eliminate free radicals that can destroy blood vessel walls. Keeping these walls healthy will increase the blood circulation to the skin. This helps repair it and gives it that rosy glow.