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For years and years I was a junk food junkie. I grew up with awful eating habits and a horrible repertoire of microwavable dinners. I ate the worst snacks, drank the worst drinks and suffered for it with low energy, anxiety and depression. Then I switched to a healthy meal plan.

It wasn't easy because I loved my comfort foods. It wasn't hard because it was a common sense plan. Once I learned how to substitute ingredients and recreate healthier versions of old favorites I was well on my way to a high energy, happy way of life.

Three simple rules for getting the most energy from common foods:

1) Go natural. This is the simplest most effective guideline for grocery shopping. Don't get overwhelmed by all the vitamins, additives, prep processes and shiny packages. Zero in on the nutritional information. The less ingredients you read on the back the better off you're going to be. Save the preparations for your own kitchen so you know exactly what is going into your mouth.

Buy whole grains, organic produce, all-natural and simple foods. Your body will thank you for it. With less processes involved at a strange factory you'll end up with healthier food your body can make use of to keep you energized.

2) Small meals more often. This can be a lot of fun. I eat three small meals a day and three little snacks in between. I'm never "starving" at any point of my day and I keep my energy up for all sixteen hours, no problem.

Just make certain that your snacks and meals are natural and simple. Processed foods are usually filled with empty calories and sugar rushes (then crashes). You're looking for long term here.

If you're looking for a good staple to your diet, try the combination meal of a salad and some protein. This gives you a variety of options. Choose your favorite lettuces, vegetables and meat. Add some cheese if you'd like. Experiment with different styles and recipes. Make your own dressing, or understand the ingredients on the label of a flavor you love. Just keep your ingredients natural and you'll keep your energy up.

3) No Caffeine allowed. This rule is very important. If you are a caffeine addict you're going to have to lay off. You'll feel much better in the long run and as soon as your headache misery passes you'll feel awesome in general. When I eliminated caffeine from my life I was surprised at how much my energy levels improved. I no longer need it to stay awake and I no longer have trouble falling asleep. Once you say good bye to caffeine you can start processing and noticing all the energy you get from your simple food. You'll be amazed at the difference it makes.

Learn more about this author, E. Rae Fallesen.
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