As the saying goes: "Spring sleepiness, autumn fatigue, summer naps, and a drowsy winter for three months." Are we to spend the entire year in a drowsy state? Although this is an old proverb, many people do feel lethargic in the spring. What can be done about it? Besides getting more rest and exercise, it's also important to pay attention to your daily diet, as many foods can effectively help relieve spring fatigue.
Why do you get spring fatigue?
Medically speaking, in winter, low temperatures cause slow blood circulation in the human body, leading to a relatively increased supply of blood and oxygen to the brain. In spring, the opposite is true, which causes people to feel lazy and drowsy. Additionally, the human body's metabolism increases in the spring, leading to higher oxygen consumption. Meanwhile, the oxygen produced by plants through photosynthesis is minimal at this time, which is another factor contributing to fatigue. Furthermore, a lack of B vitamins and overeating are also significant causes.
"Spring fatigue" cannot be solved simply by sleeping more; excessive sleep can instead suppress the cerebral cortex, leading to even more drowsiness. It's important to actively participate in exercise and outdoor activities to promote or improve blood circulation, allowing substances to circulate and for "yang energy" to flourish. In terms of diet, you should eat more foods rich in B vitamins, such as soybeans, peanuts, ham, black rice, chicken liver, nuts, spinach, and cheese. At the same time, portions should not be too large.
Feeling lethargic from spring fatigue? 10 must-energizing foods
Almonds
Many energizing snacks contain almonds. Research shows that almonds are one of the most nutritious nuts. Rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and plenty of protein, almonds can help you stay energetic all day.
Salmon
Fish is rich in protein and amino acids and has the great benefit of refreshing the mind and brain. The skin of deep-sea fish like salmon and cod contains amino acids and tryptophan, which can soothe the nervous system, thereby alleviating depressive moods.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a good "home" for B vitamins. Vitamin B1 helps improve mental state, which is especially needed by people who are often mentally tense. Vitamin B2, together with B6, helps relieve fatigue and refresh the mind. Vitamin B6 plays a regulatory role in protein metabolism, aids in energy production, and makes people feel energetic, earning it the name "energizing nutrient."
Toon Sprouts (Chinese Toon)
Toon sprouts are rich in plant protein, with their glycine and glutamic acid content ranking highest among vegetables. This helps increase the excitability of the nervous system and enhance the body's stress response. Regular consumption of toon sprouts can eliminate spring fatigue, expel toxins, and boost energy.
Bean Sprouts
Soybeans and mung beans contain large amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential dietary trace elements like sodium, phosphorus, iron, and calcium. After sprouting, soybeans not only retain their original substances but also increase their vitamin content, which is beneficial for eliminating fatigue. The chlorophyll in bean sprouts can help prevent rectal cancer.
Strawberries
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, which helps the body absorb iron and allows cells to fully absorb oxygen. Therefore, eating more strawberries can make a person feel more energetic.
Garlic
Garlic has powerful antibacterial properties that can eliminate invading pathogens. But did you know it also helps with the absorption of vitamin B1, promotes the metabolism of carbohydrates to produce energy, and relieves fatigue? Cooking lean meat with garlic can improve blood circulation, increase the amount of vitamin B1 released, prolong its stay in the body, promote blood circulation, quickly eliminate physical fatigue, and enhance physical fitness.
Pineapple
Pineapple is very rich in vitamin B1, so it can eliminate fatigue and make you feel more energetic. When you feel a bit tired, eating a few fresh pineapple slices can instantly make you feel much more refreshed.
Lemon
The rich citric acid in lemons has a fatigue-relieving effect because it can support the body's activities as a source of energy. When the body feels tired, after excessive sweating, or when thirsty, drinking a glass of lemon juice can have a good relieving effect.
Orange
Eating oranges can relieve tiredness. Oranges are rich in potassium, which can replenish the body's supply. Their sour taste is both refreshing and appetizing. With a better appetite, you'll eat a richer variety of foods, ensuring sufficient potassium absorption. The orange peel also contains flavonoids, neohesperidin, hesperidin, and other compounds that have anti-hypoxia and anti-fatigue effects. Therefore, drinking water steeped with orange peel can also be very effective.