Ditch the Caffeine - Embrace the Food!

Lately I have been surrounded by talks of detoxing and all these crazy schemas to shed away those little annoying Christmas pounds, fair enough, as I too would like to whip my lil butt into shape.

What's really annoying me though is how at Uni, with all the deadlines catching up with us ,everyone keeps on going on about how much they need their "caffeine boost!" or "sweet sweet morning glory (coffee)". Me personally, even when hanging out at Starbucks and everyone is asking for their Caramel Frappucino, Espresso or Extra Shot Skinny Vanilla Late all I can think of is a nice Hot Chocolate and some YUMMY FOOD!

With me there is nothing better to feel cleansed and full of energy after the hollidays than some jogging and tasty easy food, so as an attempt to stear you guys clear of the hidden addiction that is caffeine I thought I'd share with you some easy recipes that will boost your energy all the same ; )

Peanut Butter and Banana Sarnie

2tbsp peanut butter (preferably with no added sugar)

2 slices of wholemeal bread

1 sliced banana

...because: Bananas are bursting with carbohydrates, potassium and fibre which will keep you feeling full for longer and slowly release energy into your body! You can even add some hony if you like.

Wholewheat Pasta with Broccoli, Beans and Cheese

Toss together 1 cup coocked wholewheat penne pasta,

30g feta cheese,

1/2 cup cannellini beans,

1 cup chopped broccoli and

2tsp olive oil

...because:

It's simply the ideal fibre-protein mix rather than the carb overload that is spaghetti and tomatoe sauce which will only lead to an energy crash once it burns out! plus wholewheat is digested slower than white pasta which will help if you find yourself struggling with afternoon fatigue.

Lentil soup and Salad

250ml bowl of lentil soup (will ask my Mum for the recipe)

1 wholegrain roll

1 plate of mixed salad (lettuce, cucumber, tomatoe, onion, avocado, carrots, and whatever else you like), dress with a light vinaigrette dressing

...because:

Lentils, beans and chilli soups are good hearty altenatives to broth-based ones such as tomato soup and for that reason keep you going for much much longer, you'll find yourself snacking much less as beans and lentils are high in fibre and protein.

So there you have it, my simple plan to boosting your energy a little more this year without turning to those evil energy drinks or espressos on your way out the house. And remember if yo have the time, thre is nothing like a nice afternoon jog!