Eat This, Not That, When You’re Feeling Drained
We’ve all been there: that mid-morning slump, the 3 p.m. crash, or waking up already tired. When your energy dips, it’s tempting to reach for something quick, usually sugar or ultra-processed snacks. But while those might give you a fast boost, they often leave you feeling even more drained later.
The good news? You can support steady, all-day energy through what (and how) you eat. Food is information for your body. The right nutrients help balance blood sugar, support your mitochondria (your body’s energy engines), and keep your brain and hormones functioning at their best.
Here are some smart ways to fuel up, no caffeine or sugar crash required:
1. Prioritize protein in every meal
Protein helps stabilize blood sugar and keeps you full and focused. Think pasture-raised eggs, salmon, chicken, hemp seeds, or a high-quality protein smoothie.
2. Don’t skip healthy fats
Your brain runs on fat. Avocado, extra virgin olive oil, chia seeds, nuts, and coconut are all great sources that support mental clarity and lasting energy.
3. Choose complex carbs, with purpose
Instead of reaching for white bread, go for slow-burning carbs like sweet potatoes, oats, quinoa, or fruit paired with some protein or healthy fat. They provide fiber and steady fuel without the spike and crash.
4. Stay hydrated (with minerals)
Dehydration, even mild, can make you feel sluggish. Add a pinch of sea salt, or drink water with lemon to support electrolyte balance.
5. Find your eating rhythm
Your body likes routine. Try to eat around the same times each day to keep your energy steady and your digestion happy. Whether it’s three meals or meals with snacks, consistency matters.
6. Be mindful of your morning routine
Begin your day with a nourishing meal, like our All I Avo Wanted, Eggs & Salmon or Power Bowl, to set the tone for balanced energy that lasts. Coffee can absolutely be part of your morning, but it works best alongside real food, not as a substitute for it.
At Parakeet Cafe, we believe that food should energize, not exhaust. Eating for energy isn’t about restriction. It’s about giving your body what it actually needs to thrive. By building meals around real, whole foods and tuning into your body’s natural cues, you can support more balanced energy, so you enjoy your coffee, without having to rely on it.
Gabriela Nestel,
Nutritionist & Hormonal Health Expert, Parakeet Café