In Part 1 of Energy Zapping Foods we outlined how refined carbohydrates, processed foods and fatty foods can make you feel tired during the day. Which isn’t that surprising, is it? What IS surprising is how other, healthy foods can also cause drowsiness. These might surprise you!
Bananas – Bananas are high in magnesium. Magnesium is an essential mineral that aids with sleep. Dawn Napoli, R.D. who works for Orlando Health, says that “High-magnesium foods like banana, pumpkin seeds, and halibut can make you tired. This mineral is actually a muscle relaxant, so it’s great before bed but could affect your energy during the day.” So the goodnews is if you do have trouble sleeping, a banana before bed could help you get to sleep quicker.
Cherries – Cherries contain melatonin which is a hormone known to improve the quality of one’s sleep, which means you might want to save them as a snack near bedtime. “Cherries will actually help regulate sleep, so it’s great as an aid but may be poor as a midday snack,” says Napoli.
Salmon (and Halibut) – These fish are a source of the vitamin B6. B6 is what the body uses to make melatonin which makes sleep more inviting. Pamela Peeke, M.D., an internationally renowned expert and speaker in women’s health, fitness and nutrition, says, “If someone is naturally low energy and wants to maintain peak energy and attention, have salmon at night when its sedative effects can be used effectively. The same goes for halibut.”
Oatmeal – Oatmeal, of course, is a breakfast favorite for many people. But if you feel tired later on, it could be the culprit. Cynthia Pasquella, CCN, CHLC, CWC says, “Oats are also rich in melatonin, which relaxes the body and helps you fall asleep.”
It’s not a coincidence that the three categories in Part One (refined carbohydrates, highly-processed foods, fatty foods) consist of foods you’ll want to limit eating as part of a healthy diet. That said, if you sometimes feel tired during the day, it could have something to do with what you’re eating. Cut down on the above and focus more on whole foods and you can’t help but have more energy throughout your day.