We all know that putting the right food in your body can lead to better health. But when our energy levels are low, we suffered a bad night’s sleep or we feel a bit under the weather, it’s all too easy to turn towards sugar and caffeine to give us the boost we crave.
Whilst it can be hard to reach for a healthier snack when our bodies are crying out for a quick fix, try to remember that a quick fix is exactly what you’ll get – then you’ll go back to feeling just as bad, if not worse, than you did.
But eating the right food can make you feel like a whole new person. Don’t worry, we’re not suggesting a detox or fad diet – after all, eating should be enjoyable! Read on to find out which key foods you should turn to when you’re not feeling quite right, and see what a difference they make to your mood, health and general wellbeing.
Bloated
Start your day with hot water and lemon – this creates a natural diuretic and helps prevent salt retention.
Choose lean protein such as chicken or turkey throughout the day – fresh, as pre-packaged meats can contain high levels of sodium which can worsen the problem, and eat it alongside cooked veg. Finish with probiotic yogurt, which helps to get some good bacteria into your gut, regulating digestion.
If you only eat one thing… Asparagus is an ant-bloating superfood. Steam it to make it easier for the gut to break down.
Headache
Try a banana. High in magnesium and potassium, they can help blood vessels relax and balance electrolytes, easing head pain.
Baked potatoes are also potassium rich – fill with cheese as the high calcium content can help relax your body and help a sore head. A spicy filling, such as coronation chicken, can also help to relieve congestion, reducing sinus pressure to ease your head.
If you only eat one thing… Food with a high water content such as watermelon and other fruit is essential to keep you hydrated. Drink lots of water to ward off headaches, and stay away from things such as caffeine, which can dehydrate.
Insomnia
After a long, sleepless night, start the day with carbs and protein. Cereal with milk will slowly release energy to keep you going through the morning. If you absolutely must have your coffee fix, have a latte – this way you get a protein hit from the milk, too.
Try to eat vegetables such as spinach, cabbage and parsley throughout the day – these are rich in glutamine which will help you to sleep in the evening. Fish and meat are also a great glutamine source.
If you only eat one thing… A Kiwi fruit before bed will help to aid the production of serotonin, a contributor to feelings of well-being and happiness. If you find sleeping difficult because your brain is constantly ticking over and worrying, this can help you to relax and ease into slumber. Serotonin can also aid the production of healthy sleeping patterns.
