Winter can be tough—on your skin and on your health! The cold weather, the gloomy grey skyline, all gives rise to a lingering feeling of lethargy. And the cold doesn’t do much for your skin either. But hey, we have here a list of foods that will help cheer you up during these gloomy months.

To help get you out of your inevitable gloom when winter comes, we’ve compiled a list of high-energy winter foods for you to munch your way through winter.
 

Avocados

Avocados

Avocado has not been given the coveted title of “superfood” for no reason. It comes packed with healthy fats—monounsaturated and polyunsaturated—that provide enough energy for you to cruise through work with ease, they are also high in the B vitamins that play a role in the control of the mitochondria, or the “powerhouse” of your cells. All you have to do is mix some avocados into a smoothie or maybe grind and spread it over some toast in the morning to reap the benefits.

 

Coconut

Coconut

While you’ve probably only associated coconuts with piña colada, they actually have a plethora of beauty benefits too. There are the coconut face masks, and of course, the classic coconut oil for your hair, but what people often miss out on is it’s advantages in the raw form. Coconuts are high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that work to increase the efficiency of your metabolism. Rather than stalling in your fat cells, MCTs are almost instantly used by the muscles in the body, easily providing you with the energy boost you need for that end of the day workout.

 

Dark Chocolate

Dark Chocolate

Yippee—this one is an official excuse to dip into your secret chocolate stash! But on a more serious note, consumption of chocolate needs to be kept in moderation. Munching on some high cocoa containing dark chocolate will give you a fair amount of magnesium and potassium that you need for the day. It also contains low levels of the stimulant caffeine, providing you with that extra lift without the dreaded restlessness when you can’t fall asleep at night.

 

Banana

Banana

Maybe you’ll think of the term “go bananas” in a more positive light after reading this. All the ingredients needed for a productive day are condensed between its smooth yellow peel. Bananas are packed with potassium and vitamin B6, substances that are known for giving the body a boost, and it is also high in the fiber that works to control spikes in your blood sugar—thus making sure you’re not found snoring at your desk after a heavy lunch.

 

Quinoa

Quinoa

Yup, you’ve found another renowned superfood on this list. It does not only contain a multitude of amino acids, but is also found to have nutrients such as manganese to make sure that this carb releases its energy gradually and steadily. Rather than having the traditional basmati rice with every meal, why not opt for this healthier grain to ensure that your head doesn’t hit your pillow as soon as you reach home from work.