Not enough hours in the day? Suffering from an afternoon slump? Hitting the snooze button- AGAIN? Energy is something we could all use more of and eating your recommended servings of dairy foods as part of a balanced diet can help. Here’s how:
- Milk helps you meet nutrient needs. Milk contains 13 essential nutrients. One of these nutrients, pantothenic acid, helps your body use carbohydrates, fats, and protein for fuel to energize your day. Drink a glass of milk with breakfast or pour it in a blender and start your day with a refreshing raspberry smoothie.
- Dairy foods fill you up. Don’t get distracted by hunger. Including lean proteins like dairy foods in your meals and snacks can help you stay full, focused, and ready to take on the day. Making oatmeal with milk, topping salads with cheese, or snacking on a Greek yogurt parfait are all easy ways to include more dairy protein in your diet.
- Protein in dairy may help you avoid a “sugar crash.” Eating a meal full of refined carbohydrates can cause your blood sugar to rise rapidly then drop resulting in a “sugar crash” and leaving you feeling less than energetic. Keep your blood sugar stable by pairing protein-rich dairy foods with complex carbohydrates like whole-wheat bread, brown rice, or oats instead. Step up your cereal game with this ancient grain recipe featuring quinoa and amaranth.
- Dairy protein can also help you sleep sounder. Studies have linked higher protein diets to better sleep quality which can result in more energy. With 8 grams per glass, milk is not only an excellent source of protein. It also provides tryptophan, which your body uses to make the sleep-promoting chemical serotonin. Sip on a Lavender Milk Steamer before bedtime to help you fall asleep faster and feel your best the next day.
Low energy levels happen. The next time you’re in need of a boost, take a break and reset with dairy.
