15 energy-boosting snacks for weary IT pros
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Dark chocolate for a boost
Working in tech can be stressful and have serious health consequences. And let’s face it: IT folks aren’t known for having the best diets.
So. Are you feeling a little run down? Here are some snacks guaranteed to awaken and energize your overworked, inner code monkey.
You can have chocolate daily, but it had better be the type that actually improves your health. Filled with antioxidants, dark chocolate releases lots of feel-good endorphins, the same kind you get when you’re falling in love — which is very convenient when you’re feeling frustrated with those adorable idealists over on the design team.
Walnuts to cut down on distracting cravings
Nuts in general are great snacks, but the walnut in particular is a great source for Omega-3 fatty acids.
According to scientists at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania, eating 6 to 7 walnuts a day can help scavenge almost every disease-causing free radical from your body. You don’t actually like taking sick days, do you?
Fried grasshoppers instead of potato chips
If you need to persuade your office manager to stock up on bugs, point out it’s what people in at least 113 countries munch on. That includes China, which is where everybody who’s anybody is sourcing their hardware these days.
Protein, which helps the brain develop and keeps it running, is something grasshoppers have lots of — and these bugs also are lower in cholesterol than pork or beef. Just don’t look ’em in the eye when you pop ’em in your mouth.
Grapefruit to keep you hydrated and energetic
Not only does grapefruit have a good dose of Vitamin C, it’s also 91% water. Hydration is the key to staying awake through that next conference call.
Blueberries for your memory fix
Incredibly high in antioxidants and important nutrients like vitamin C, blueberries can improve short-term memory, according to a recent study.
In fact, in 2010 the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry published a report that showed those who drank blueberry juice every day for two months showed significant improvement in memory and learning tests.
So say goodbye to Apple Watch haptic reminders and hello to blueberry smoothies.
Papaya for energy boosting
Feeling laggardly? Instead of that third cup of coffee, munch on some papaya slices instead. This energy-boosting fruit is brimming with vitamin C, and eating just one medium papaya fulfills 224% of your daily needs. Plus, you’ll look gorgeous while snacking, since this superfruit promotes healthy hair and complexion.
Whole grains when you need carb-loading energy fixes
You need carbohydrates in your daily diet, and whole grains have the added benefit of lowering the risks of heart disease and cancer… which you just can’t say for donuts.
Eggs cut down on your (real) sick days
The humble egg is actually one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. They improve energy and your immune system, are chock-full of good fats and proteins, and contain choline, a nutrient associated with lower levels of anxiety.
Tomatoes for lowering your stress
Having a bad day at work? Eat a tomato, and you’ll feel better.
According to Medical News Today, there are various health benefits to tomatoes. A great source of vitamins A, C, and folic acid as well as chock full of antioxidants, tomatoes have been proven to lower blood pressure and help stave off depression.
Tofu for that stress headache
Besides being a great, low-calorie source of protein, the isoflavones found in soy can prevent migraines, reduce PMS symptoms, and regulate blood sugar.
Kimchi for stress-induced ulcers
First, kimchi goes with, in, or on almost anything. Second, it’s a spicy food that actually helps with digestion, prevents peptic ulcers, and promotes a healthy brain. Third, it’s delicious.
Spinach for your keeping your brain sharp
Research indicates spinach can slow brain deterioration. When in doubt, eat a lot of spinach. As Florida-based dietitian Tara Gidus told Real Simple, “I know neurologists who recommend eating spinach at least three times a week.”
Seaweed to keep you alert
While it does have vitamins A and C, the most important nutrient seaweed contains is iodine. Iodine is critical for keeping your thyroid functioning; if it malfunctions, you’re in for a host of problems, including fatigue, muscle weakness, impaired memory, heart palpitations, and high cholesterol.
So have a couple kimbap rolls for lunch instead of that burger.
Avocado for a natural detox
Avocado is one of the only foods that contains a healthy amount of the fats that are good for you. It’s great for your heart and vision and is a natural detoxification food.
Basically, you now have an excuse to hog all the guacamole at lunch.
Green tea for overall kicking butt
Is it a snack per se? Does it matter? Green tea is incredible. This ancient health drink improves metabolism, concentration, eyesight, reduces depression, stress, fatigue, and reduces risks for cancer, heart disease, diabetes — the list goes on and on.
Plus, it can be a great way to get caffeine without feeling jittery. Want to add a little kick? Add some ginger, which also has multiple health benefits.
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