Energizing Eats

Experts share the right foods to supercharge your day.

- ARIELLE WEG RECIPES BY KRISTINA KUREK

A cup of coffee might give you a jolt, but you can have more zip the rest of the time if you regularly feed your body foods that contain specific nutrients for steady, sustained energy. A combo of carbohydrates and protein balances blood sugar to create the ideal energizing bite, while healthy fats and fiber support the even release of glucose to fuel metabolism and increase energy. "Blood sugar regulation is intimately tied to how energetic we feel," says Robin Foroutan, M.S., R.D.N., an integrative dietitian. And be sure to sip water all daystaying hydrated is key to keeping energy from lagging, adds Vanessa Rissetto, M.S., R.D., C.D.N., cofounder and CEO of Culina Health. These foods can help put pep in your step.

TEFF POLENTA

ACTIVE 25 MIN.

TOTAL 25 MIN.

SERVES 4

In medium saucepan, bring 1½ cups each cashew milk and water, 1 clove garlic (grated), and 1 tsp vegetable bouillon base (we used Better Than Bouillon) to a boil. Whisk in 1 cup teff. Simmer, covered, whisking occasionally, until tender, 15 to 20 min. If necessary, whisk in an additional 1/4 cup water, then 1/2 cup Parmesan (grated). Serve topped with 3 Tbsp flatleaf parsley (chopped) and freshly cracked black pepper.

PER SERVING 271 cal, 11 g pro, 40 g carb, 4 g fiber, 1.5 g sugars (0.5 g added sugars), 7.5 g fat (2.5 g sat fat), 9 mg chol, 406 mg sodium

TEFF

This naturally gluten-free whole grain has a balance of protein and carbohydrates, says Foroutan. Plus, it's high in fiber, which stabilizes blood sugar, along with magnesium, a mineral involved in energy production, says Rissetto. Look for it in your supermarket's grain aisle or online.