Foods for energy

Whilst I cannot overstress, the importance of a varied diet there are actually some ingredients with some very special properties. We all know is that being ill can leave us feeling exhausted. This is especially true for children who are often lacking in energy for several days after the other symptoms have disappeared.

To give our children an energy boost, we need to consider two types of carbohydrates:

1. Those that release sugars slowly into the bloodstream. These include brown rice, potato, pasta, wholegrain cereals, vegetables and fruit. These give long- lasting energy and avoid sudden changes in blood sugar, which can cause mood swings and poor concentration.

Recipe suggestion:
Pasta Shells With Three Cheese Sauce
Turkey Pasta Salad with Honey and Soy Sauce Dressing

2. High sugar foods like biscuits, cakes and soft drinks. These foods cause a rapid rise in blood sugar. They are perfectly acceptable in small amounts but when given alone, the body can overcompensate to the rapid rise in blood sugar, produce large amounts of insulin and actually cause a dip in blood sugar levels.

Recipe suggestion:
Power Packed Oat Bars

Next page