Nutritional Quick-Fixes

Summer is a time to rejuvenate, relax, and refresh. However, more and more professionals are finding themselves exhausted after a long day at the office and aren’t able to find the time for some good ol’ fashioned TLC. When time is the issue, these simple nutritional quick fixes can get your day off to a great start and keep you going till your head hits the pillow at night.

Drained? Get your hands on that Vitamin C! Found in oranges, grapefruit, and any other citrus food Vitamin C enhances energy and can make you more alert. A simple citrus snack can give you the boost you need to make it through the day.

Tired? More likely than not, your body is dehydrated. Drink water! A quick, cold glass of H2O will awaken your senses and replenish your body with the moisture it deserves. Add lemon for a double-boost!

Unfocused? This is why breakfast is the most important meal of the day: Eggs contain choline which is known to support memory. Two eggs over easy in the morning can give you the memory retention you need all day at work. Breakfast isn’t complete with the classic pick-me-up. Studies show that coffee improves mental awareness. A freshly-brewed 16 oz. serving can immediately improve concentration.

Stressed? Ladies will love this. Dark chocolate goes a long way in stress relief. A small square of dark chocolate contains flavonoids which lower blood pressure and increase blood flow. Two more delicious quick fixes in the world of stress relief are garlic and avocados. Avocados contain an incredible amount of Vitamin E, which not only supports elasticity of the skin, but fortifies the immune system. Garlic breath is worth the benefits that come with it: an immune system boost as well as relaxing your blood vessels. Plus the flavor goes with almost any meal!

Can’t sleep? Cherries are the best natural source of melatonin, a hormone that helps control your sleep and wake cycles. The magnesium in almonds also helps encourage sleep. At the end of a long day, bananas can calm both body and mind with the amount of tryptophan they contain. Don’t forget potassium! The potassium bananas are known to carry relaxes your muscles- an effortless way to ease into a restful night.

Using nutrition and foods to your benefit can result in an overall healthier state of well-being, and better care for your body and mind in the long run.