Foods that will boost stamina and charge you

Endurance is something anyone who runs long distance or attempts extended workouts will actively hope for. Having the stamina on hand to complete a marathon, ultra-marathon, or even just run for half an hour takes hard work, willpower, and plenty of time as you slowly build your body's ability to keep going. There are a few things you can do that can help speed the development of your endurance and stamina along.

For a healthier boost to stamina, look for foods that contain good complex carbohydrates, fiber, lean protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants. These will supply a steady stream of energy and promote protection and repair of muscles as you push your body past its normal limits.

Oatmeal and Barley

Oats, Barley and other whole grains provide fiber, complex carbohydrates, and protein to supply a steady stream of energy. They are also rich in omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Both barley and oats contain beneficial carbohydrates called beta-glucans, which boost immune function and heart health too.

Water

Proper hydration is vital to fully activated endurance. Drink plenty of clean water daily. Fresh juices and teas are also beneficial.

Blueberries

Most berries are packed with fiber and water to keep you hydrated. Blueberries are also rich in powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect against and undo all the tearing down and stress that takes place during long runs and work outs.

Walnuts and Almonds

These nuts are rich in essential amino acids required to rebuild muscle. They also contain healthy fats that keep the cardiovascular system running at optimum and boost energy levels. Nuts are a good source of vitamin E, fiber, and antioxidants too.

Cherries

Cherries are rich in antioxidants that have been shown to reduce inflammation and ease muscle pain during recovery. They may also help you sleep better, which is when the body repairs all the damage we do throughout the day.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates paired with fiber for slow digestion, providing that ever crucial steady flow of nutrients. They are also rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants.

Red Peppers

Vitamin C is important to many functions of the body, including proper blood flow and the health of blood vessels. It's a powerful antioxidant too, and red peppers are filled with it. Red peppers also contain anti-inflammatories that reduce pain.

Bananas

The potassium, fiber, and B6 in bananas help restore lost electrolytes and balance hydration. Bananas have some anti-inflammatory properties too.

Chia Seeds

These tiny seeds pack in a lot of nutrition. Chia seeds are nutrient-dense super foods full of fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, protein, calcium, and iron. They also contain soluble and insoluble fiber which holds onto water, slowly releasing it during digestion to supply long-term hydration and energy.

Quinoa

This ancient grain isn't really a grain at all, but it still packs a ton of protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants into each tiny seed. Quinoa also offers a complete protein, containing all the essential amino acids the body needs to build and repair muscle.

Turmeric

The spice found in curry carries some powerful antioxidants that ease pain, protect the body from damage, and reduce inflammation. It is very good for recovery.

Carrots

Carrots are a rich source of vitamin A and E. Vitamin E plays a role in the efficient use of oxygen and in the transportation of blood to muscles. Carrots are also rich in fiber, antioxidants, and some complex carbohydrates.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is rich in medium chain triglycerides. These fats are shorter and more easily used by the body, so they are burned instead of stored to provide a boost. Coconut also combats infection and reduces inflammation. Try it externally to ease sore muscles and joints, and internally for energy, endurance, and a speedier recovery.

Brown Rice

Brown rice is another grain that supplies the body with fiber, complex carbohydrates, antioxidants, proteins, and healthy fats for long term energy.

Sprouts

Sprouted seeds, nuts, and grains contain fewer phytates and enzyme inhibitors, compounds that plant foods use to resist digestion. Sprouted foods are more easily digested, and that nutrition is more available for the body to put to use as energy, to repair damage, and to build muscle.

Coconut Water

Coconut water is a natural electrolyte-rich beverage that doesn't overdo the sodium or sugar. You do want some sodium though if you are working out hard. Try coconut water with a dash of sea salt, a little lime, and maybe a small amount of a natural
sweetener.

Let your extra weight be minimised, let life be once again naturalised, get mickeymised!!!

—Dr Mickey Mehta — Corporate Life Coach / Global Leading Holistic Health Guru.