Today’s blog is Part One of a two-part series designed to help you bring more ENERGY back into your life.
Did you know that over half of the calories we eat every day come from ultra-processed foods?
These foods might taste great and be super convenient, but they’re kind of like that “friend” who borrows stuff and never gives it back. They give you a quick boost of energy, but it doesn’t last—and before you know it, you’re left tired and reaching for more.
The Quick Boost and Crash of Ultra-Processed Foods
Let’s say you grab a bag of chips or a candy bar for a snack. At first, you feel a little burst of energy, thanks to the sugar and refined carbs. It’s like striking a match—it lights up fast, but it burns out even faster. Soon, that boost crashes, leaving you tired, hungry, and needing another snack to get going again. And that starts a cycle where you’re stuck chasing energy all day.
Ultra-processed foods, like chips, sugary cereals, and frozen dinners, are filled with added sugars, unhealthy fats, salt and artificial ingredients. They make us feel good for a minute, but without any real nutrients, they drain our energy and keep us coming back for more.
Whole Foods: The Steady Energy You Can Count On
Now, think about the difference when you eat whole foods like fruits, veggies, and whole grains. These are the foods that act more like a slow-burning log in a fire—they give you steady, lasting energy all day. When you eat complex carbs, like whole grains and vegetables, your body digests them slowly, giving you a more even, steady energy level.
For example, imagine a lunch of whole grains, veggies, and maybe some lean protein, like chicken or beans. Unlike that quick sugar snack, this kind of meal keeps you full and energized for hours, so you don’t end up craving something else right away.
What If We Added More Whole Foods and Cut Down on the Processed Stuff?
What if we tried to get 40-50% of our daily calories from whole foods instead of just the usual 10%? It could make a big difference! Adding things like fruits, veggies, and whole grains to your day doesn’t have to be hard. Just swap out one processed snack for an apple and some nuts or choose whole-grain bread instead of white bread.
Each little swap gives you real, lasting energy and helps you feel more awake and focused. No need to aim for perfection—just make small changes here and there, and over time, you’ll feel the difference.
Ready to Try? Let’s Fuel Up with Real Energy!
If you’re tired of feeling tired, start with a simple swap. Try choosing one whole-food snack each day and notice how much better you feel.
If you’re ready for a big change, let’s chat! I offer a FREE “Get My Energy Back” Health Consult, where we’ll work together to find simple ways to boost your energy that fit right into your life.
Sign up for your FREE consult here
Let’s fuel your body the right way and say goodbye to those energy crashes. You’ve got real energy waiting!
Mike Thomas is a registered pharmacist and a Mayo Clinic-trained, board-certified health coach. He specializes in helping busy professionals overcome low energy, high stress, and chronic pain to reclaim their health and vitality.
This blog is for educational and informational purposes only and solely as a self-help tool for your own use. I am not providing medical, psychological, or nutrition therapy advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your own medical practitioner. Always seek the advice of your own medical practitioner and/or mental health provider about your specific health situation. For my full Disclaimer, please go to CoachMikeThomas.com.