Top 10 energy sapping foods

Being busy can often mean grabbing what food we can, when we can. But the fact that we are busy means that we need to make sure we eat the right foods, because our bodies need this more than ever.

If you feel drained all the time, but think you eat healthily, it may have something to do with eating food that drain your energy. Dr Jennie Cockroft of Purely Nutrition gives the lowdown on energy sapping foods.

1. Sugar ? release energy quickly which results in an energy rush followed by a rapid come down which simply leaves your craving more sugars.
2. White Flour and white flour products ? white flour has a high glycaemic index meaning it releases energy more quickly than wholegrain varieties meaning hunger strikes sooner!
3. Not eating Breakfast ?breakfast is the most important meal of the day as it quite literally breaks your fast. When you?ve been sleeping you have had no energy intake meaning your metabolism has slowed right down and the release of glucose to your body is very limited. Starting your day without breakfast can leave you lethargic, tired, unmotivated and hungry around snack time!
4. Caffeine ? excessive intake of caffeine i.e. above the recommended 300 milligrams a day (3 mugs of coffee) can result in problems such as low birth weights or miscarriage. Many natural foods contain caffeine and a small amount is perfectly safe however excessive consumption can be dangerous. Caffeine is also a diuretic which has the capacity to dehydrate you.
5. Alcohol ? excessive quantities of alcohol can harm your baby, you should avoid them.
6. Chocolate ? chocolate is a contradiction. Initially it will give you a sugar high and release endorphins making your feel happy ? not energy sapping then you may say; however due to the quick release of energy you will be left feeling tired and simply craving more. If you can?t resist chocolate opt for a small bar of dark chocolate which will give you an intense ?chocolate fix? and antioxidant benefit
7. Foods containing salt ? too much salt can cause swelling and increase blood pressure. Sodium is an essential mineral which is important for fluid balance in you and your baby so some sodium is needed during your pregnancy, however due to the high levels of hidden salt in processed foods, excessive consumption should be avoided.
8. Foods containing saturated fats ? saturated fats are termed bad fats as they cause health problems such as high cholesterol and excessive weight gain, opt for unsaturated fats instead which contain essential fatty acids needed by your baby.
9. Processed Meats ? processed meat commonly contains high levels of saturated fats and salts both of which are in our no-go list! Opt for lean cuts of meat or vegetarian options which are high in protein and low in fat.
10. Big meals ? opt for smaller portions and small healthy snacks, preferably two per day based on complex carbohydrates to stop you feeling hungry. Big meals can bloat you and leave you feeling hungry before your next meal.

Dr Jennie Cockroft is a nutritional director for Purely Nutrition. For more tips and advice on diet during pregnancy and beyond, visit the website.