Being stuck inside for the best part of the day, away from the routines you’re used to, can be tough. Your mood may not be as positive as normal and your energy and motivation levels might be lower too.

Whilst it can be easy to fall into the trap of having a day-long Netflix binge and comforting yourself with your favourite snacks and ice cream. Then washing it all down with fizzy drinks or alcohol, these foods and drinks really aren’t going to do you any favours.

Instead, there are some healthier power food options you might like to try to improve your energy levels, awareness, focus, and wellbeing – just what you need to get through the lockdown!

1. Green tea

Rich in antioxidants and nutrients, there are many health benefits associated with green tea. The caffeine will help to improve your mood, attentiveness and memory. And when the caffeine is combined with the amino acid L-theanine – also found in green tea, it can actually improve brain function.

2. Water

It’s a bit of a well-known fact that the recommended daily intake of water is 8 glasses per day. Without enough water, you’ll become dehydrated and you definitely won’t feel like doing anything. You’ll feel a lack of motivation, increased tiredness and anxiety, and things will generally feel much more difficult – both mentally and physically!

3. Coffee

If the green tea or water doesn’t take your fancy, then grab yourself a coffee. Similar to the green tea, the caffeine will help kick start your day and give you that extra boost you need to get up and going for the day.

4. Blueberries

In need of a quick ‘pick-me-up’ as you get through the day? Why not snack on some tasty blueberries? Labelled as a ‘superfood’, the blueberries are a sweet and convenient treat packed with antioxidants that can improve your brain function and memory.

5. Leafy greens

With time on your hands you might want to consider cooking a hearty meal loaded with leafy green vegetables such as broccoli, kale and spinach instead. They’re packed full of iron which will help reduce feelings of fatigue and boost your energy levels. The vitamin C rich greens will also help to strengthen your immunity.

6. Dark chocolate

Not all energy boosting and brain improving foods have to be ‘boring’. You can indulge with a little treat of chocolate whilst still enjoying some benefits. Providing you buy quality dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, then you need not feel guilty. Dark chocolate is very nutritious, and the cocoa can improve brain function in the short term.

7. Oily fish

Among other benefits, eating oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines can lead to improved sleep. And there’s nothing you need more during times of uncertainty than a good night sleep. If you’re not sleeping, you’ll feel tired, easily frustrated and you’ll find it hard to concentrate on anything.

The above are just some of the foods and drinks you can consume for a power boost. Other foods include eggs, nuts, seeds, avocado and fruit.

Keep an eye out on our news page and social media channels (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) for more information, advice and top tips for the coming weeks.