These 3 foods could be zapping your energy

If you’re always tired, there are several factors that could be causing your sleepiness, but what you have on your plate can play a big role. Some of the most common dietary culprits that can cause fatigue are processed and sugary foods.

When looking for low-stress, pick-me-up foods, a trip to McDonald’s or a bag of potato chips may be the most convenient option, but switching to healthier whole foods will help you feel more energized.

Here are three foods you should avoid or cut back on if you want to increase your energy and overall health:

Soda

Even if it provides caffeine, the sugary effects of sodas can make you feel sluggish. This is because sugar passes quickly through your system, causing your blood sugar to spike and then drop rapidly. Excess sugar consumption, particularly in beverages, also contributes to weight gain by tricking your body’s appetite-control system into turning off because liquid calories are not as satisfying as solid food calories, according to Harvard Health.

“If you’re a soda drinker, consider a step-down approach, having less and less of it each day. Water and unsweetened, naturally-flavored seltzer water are the best ways to hydrate, but diet or zero-sugar soda may be an appropriate in-between step,” according to Today.

Frozen diet food

When you buy frozen diet entrees, you may think you’re making a healthier choice, but many of them have the same number of calories as a snack. Not nearly enough fuel to keep your body satisfied and energized.

“Plus, the few calories these entrees have typically come from heavily processed starches, like white rice and mashed potatoes, not to mention sugary and high-sodium sauces. These meals also lack adequate portions of veggies and fruits and other whole foods that keep inflammation at bay. This ingredient makeup means these meals are a recipe for low energy,” Today reported.

This doesn’t mean you should avoid all microwaveable meals; instead, choose those that are made with whole foods, have lower sodium and are between 350 and 600 calories.

White bread

White, packaged bread contains highly processed flour and additives, which can contribute to low energy levels. It also can cause blood sugar to skyrocket, weight gain and brain fog, according to Eat This, Not That.

You don’t have to completely cut bread out, but choose whole-grain bread or bread made with sprouted grains for a healthier option.

“When a grain is sprouted, its nutrients become easier to digest and more available to the body for use. It can be a better source of protein, fiber, vitamin C, folate, and other nutrients,” Medical News Today reported.