The matchas and spirulinas of this world have wondrous benefits, but some people find they’re not to their taste. However, these naturally winning combos of fuel, taste and performance can aid everything from increasing energy to boosting brain power

ENERGY

BANANAS
An all-round winner that’s both convenient and a satiating  energy boost thanks to the potassium, vitamin B6 and fast-digesting carbs

TROUT
The high levels of omega-3 in fatty fish tackles inflammation that can be a major cause of tiredness, while B12 produces red blood cells which can boost iron function

AVOCADO
The combo of monosaturated fats (which provide more energy than saturated fats), and fibre keeps blood sugar levels steady and leaves you feeling full for longer

One on One – Other good sources of monounsaturated fats are brazil nuts, cashews and almonds

BROWN RICE
Regulates blood sugar (thus avoiding exhausting energy spikes), it also contains manganese which generates energy by breaking down carbs and proteins

HAPPINESS

WALNUTS
Though the exact reason is unclear, walnuts are proven to improve mood, possibly down to the Alpha Linolenic Acid, vitamin E and polyphenols

Hit the Wal – Walnuts can increase good bacteria strains in the gut

ORANGES
Orange scents boost feelings of positivity. Now they have also been proven to improve moods when consumed too, which will ap-peel to many

DARK CHOCOLATE
As well as being delicious and better for you than varieties with a higher milk content, dark chocolate has a vast amount of antioxidants

SPINACH
The deep green leaves contain folate, which plays a big part in the production of dopamine, the feel-good brain chemical, something to bear in mind

BRAIN

SPINACH
Leafy green veg like spinach, kale and cabbage are packed with antioxidants, which can ward off brain disease and keep you functioning healthily

Spin Class – Spinach is thought to have been introduced to Europe in the 12th century

SALMON
Packed with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 humans cannot manufacture, which makes up over two-thirds of the brain’s fatty acids

BLUEBERRIES
This fruit doesn’t only improve short-term memory, but also balance and coordination due to antioxidants that affect areas central to intelligence

BROCCOLI
This wonderful cruciferous veg is a good source of vitamin K (proven to strengthen cognitive functions), and memory-enhancing choline

SLEEP

SWEET POTATO
All root veg have mentally and physically grounding properties, but sweet potatoes steer us away from sugary foods which can make us unbalanced

Sweet Relief – Sweet potatoes are rich in choline, a nutrient which helps us to sleep

GREEN TEA
L-theanine, an amino acid present in green tea, is believed to improve our responses to feelings of anxiety, and even reduce levels of cortisol in the body

EGGS
Nutritionally strong, with perfect amounts of tryptophan (an amino acid which helps create happy chemical serotonin), as well as vitamins, omega-3s, protein and fat

YOGHURT
Thanks to the probiotic bacteria, yoghurt helps to improve vital communication between the gut and the brain by working on digestive health