Hola! I’m here in sunny Spain, a Mexican-American nutritionist with a love for good food.
Have you ever noticed how certain meals leave you sluggish, while others make you feel ready to conquer the day?
It’s not magic, amigos, it’s the power of food.
The Symphony Inside You:
Imagine trillions of tiny friends living in your belly – that’s your gut microbiome, a buzzing world of bacteria and other microbes.
These little guys play a big role in your health, including your energy levels.
Finding Balance:
When I first arrived in Spain, I craved the bold flavors of my Mexican heritage. Don’t get me wrong, Mexican cuisine is amazing!
There are plenty of dishes packed with feel-good food, like fresh fish tacos or a veggie-filled bean burrito.
But those delicious, sometimes greasy, comfort foods often left me feeling zapped of energy.
Here’s the science – greasy and ultra-processed foods are tough for your gut to digest. This struggle can lead to inflammation and zap your energy [1].
The Power of Poke:
Then, I discovered the wonders of Japanese cuisine, especially sushi and seafood. This shift was a win-win!
Fish is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which studies show can actually help reduce inflammation and boost energy levels [2].
Plus, lean protein keeps you feeling fuller for longer, avoiding those afternoon slumps.
Sushi is a favorite in many parts of the globe now. My partner and I really enjoy sushi making at home
although not as authentically made as the Japanese sushi probably is, we opt for buying fresh fish locally as much as possible and make the rice our own way.
We also had the fortune, to try some poke bowls from our trip to Hawaii back in 2022.
Swedish Secrets:
Remember that year in Sweden? Their focus on fresh, whole foods resonated with me.
Science backs this up too! Whole grains, fruits, and veggies are full of fiber, which feeds your gut microbiome the “good stuff” it needs to thrive [3].
A happy microbiome is a happy you
with more energy to explore the world (and maybe even try a new type of aerobics class and see if you like it!).
Ways to Make aShift:
Ready to feel the Earthyvette energy boost? Here are some simple tips:
- Swap greasy for grilled: Opt for grilled chicken or fish instead of fried options (or limit fried as much as possible)
- Fiesta with fruits and veggies: Add a colorful salad or veggie stir-fry to your meals, like a fiesta for your gut!
- Go for whole grains: Brown rice or whole-wheat tortillas are tastier and better for you than refined grains.
- Don’t forget the good fats: Include healthy fats like avocado or olive oil in your diet.
Remember, it’s all about balance!
No need to make every change on the list. Small steps, big impact. You can still enjoy your favorite Mexican treats sometimes.
But by making small changes and feeding your gut microbiome the right kind of food, you’ll be on your way to feeling energized
and ready to explore all the wonders of the world (and beyond!).
¡Buen provecho! (Enjoy your meal!)
Science Sources:
- Harvard Health Publishing. (2020, August 27). Diet and inflammatory bowel disease. https://www.health.harvard.edu/nutrition/fighting-inflammation-with-food
- National Institutes of Health (.gov). (2022, April 12). Omega-3 fatty acids. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9892774/
- National Institutes of Health (.gov). (2022, September 28). Dietary fiber. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559033/