Caffeine stimulants can seem like an easy option when you're in need of a mid-morning boost but bear in mind that these short term energy lifts can actually result in you becoming more tired and feeling weaker in the long run. Instead of relying on artificial highs try to start making changes to your diet that help your body to fight fatigue naturally.
Beans have great nutritional value, are widely available, and come in varieties that can suit individual taste. Adding beans to your diet can help you fight fatigue and alleviate any obstacles that come with it.
Why Can Beans Help Fight off Fatigue?
It is the nutritional content of beans that make them so effective in fighting fatigue. Although the bean comes in many different varieties, all are low in fat, contain high fiber, and give a good balance of carbohydrates and protein.
They stop any drops in energy
Fiber will stabilize the blood sugar in the body, which can prevent dips in energy levels. This means that energy levels remain balanced, which is not the case if you drink stimulants like coffee and energy drinks.
They are an alternative source of protein
Beans provide a good amount of protein and are a healthy alternative to red meat. Taking beans instead of meat helps alleviate fatigue because beans are a much lighter source of food which means the digestive system doesn't have to work as hard to process them.
They're packed with essential energy-producing nutrients
As well as fiber, protein, and carbohydrates, beans contain magnesium and iron, which also help fight fatigue. Magnesium keeps the blood circulating properly, which reduces muscle fatigue; and iron eases fatigue by producing energy and then ensuring it is distributed evenly around the body.
They keep the bowels working properly
Fiber is an essential nutrient for keeping the bowels functioning properly. Women who suffer from fatigue during menopause can often suffer from constipation because they don't have the energy to exercise - necessary for keeping food moving through the intestines.
What Beans?
The good news is that there are many varieties of beans to choose from, one reason why they are part of the staple diet in many parts of the world. While no bean is a bad choice, some are more nutritional than others, so it is always worth checking the label. For example, kidney beans have a higher amount of iron than other beans. Perhaps try a varied selection so you can make up different tasting meals. However you chose to enjoy beans, try to consume half a cup to a full cup of beans a day. They can be enjoyed at breakfast, lunch, and dinner and even make for a tasty snack, too.
More Information about Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom of menopause and can leave women feeling a prolonged sense of tiredness and weakness, or like they have little or no energy. It can have a disruptive effect on work and social life, so many women wish to alleviate it as quickly and efficiently as possible. Click on the following link to find out more about the treatments for fatigue.
Sources
- Hutchinson, Susan M.D. "The Stages of a Woman's Life: Menstruation, Pregnancy, Nursing, Perimenopause, Menopause". November 2007.
- Love, Susan M.D. Menopause and Hormone Book. New York: Three Rivers Press, 2003.
- BMJ Group. "Menopause: What is it?" Patient Leaflet. 2007.