Summer can be synonymous with lazy days, BBQ’s, Summer vacations, and hopefully lots of fun. Trying to remain healthy and fit can be a challenge as we are all on the run and enjoying the nice weather as much as possible. I wanted to share with you some Foods that Increase Energy & Beat Summer Fatigue. The following foods are great summer foods that are not only delicious, but they are also healthy.
Summer is a fun and exciting time for most of us. But nutrition and eating well should not take a backseat. Eating right is essential throughout the year, and Summer can be one of the best times to do it because there is a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and other foods that are available and in season that are nutritious and delicious. So head out to the grocery store or your local Farmer’s Market and swoop up some of these Foods that Increase Energy & Beat Summer Fatigue!
10 Foods that Increase Energy & Beat Summer Fatigue
1. Watermelons
This delicious fruit is great for the summertime and for helping to keep your body hydrated. Watermelon contains potassium and vitamins A, B6, and C. Vitamin A helps the body form healthy bones, skin, and immune functions. Vitamin B6 is used to help convert carbohydrates into fuel for the body. Benefits of vitamin C include protection against cardiovascular disease, cancer, stroke, and boosting the immune system. Watermelons are also rich in antioxidants such as lycopene. Lycopene is has been shown to combat certain forms of cancer and heart disease.
2. Berries
Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are also foods that are consumed in the summer. They are low in calories and contain vitamin C, folate, and potassium. Folate helps your body form red blood cells. Potassium keeps the body’s electrolytes in balance. Berries are rich in fiber which helps lower cholesterol and promote digestion. Berries also contain antioxidants which help fight certain cancers, aging, and inflammation.
Have a hard time eating berries straight up? Toss them in a Berry & Spinach Smoothie!
3. Ice Cream
One of the biggest favorites of summer is ice cream. Although it can be fattening, there are ways to enjoy it that are actually healthy. When choosing ice cream, be sure to choose one that is low in fat. Low-fat ice cream contains vitamins A, B2, and B12. Vitamin B2 and B12 are needed to help the body break down proteins, carbohydrate, and fats. Ice cream, like other dairy products, contains calcium which is needed in the building of strong bones. It is also rich in protein which the body needs to repair and build tissue.
4. Peaches
Juicy and sweet, peaches are also a great notorious summer food. They are very high in vitamins C and A. Peaches are a good source of dietary fiber and contain antioxidants. Juicy and in season makes these the perfect snack or to bake with!
Check out my Campfire Whiskey Peach Cobbler!
5. Tomatoes
This vine ripened fruit is another nutritious summer food. They contain beta carotene is converted by the body into vitamin A. It will help prevent certain type of cancers and heart disease. Beta carotene also helps to boost immunity.
Need some fresh tomato recipes? Check out my Marinated Tomato & Feta Salad or my Easy Caprese Spinach Salad!
6. Green Beans
Green beans contain vitamins K and C, manganese, and beta-carotene. The body needs vitamin K to make blood clot and to help keep bones healthy. Vitamin C boosts the body’s immune system. Green beans are also high in fiber which keeps the digestive system moving and lowers cholesterol. Green beans can be used as a main dish or as a side dish.
7. Pineapples
Pineapples are packed full of vitamin C and that is not all this juicy fruit contains. It also helps to your body recover from muscle cramps because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
8. Pomegranates
Pomegranates are high in antioxidants. This fruit is packed full of nutrients that can help prevent a variety of different diseases.
9. Oranges
Although oranges are available year round, they are even more delicious in the summer. This fruit contains a large amount of Vitamin C.
10. Figs
Figs are sweet and high in nutrition. They contain a lot of potassium which one needs in the summer when dehydration is a possibility.
I hope you find these Foods That Increase Energy & Beat Summer Fatigue helpful!
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And make sure to check out my How to Cut Out Processed Foods post, too!
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