As the days grow shorter and temps begin to drop, you may find yourself easing into hibernation mode, drawn to the cozy warmth of classic comfort foods. There are reasons for that. For one thing, the changing seasons play a role in altering the body’s production of serotonin and melatonin in the brain, two powerful hormones influencing mood, sleep, appetite, and more. As your energy levels wane, you find yourself craving the kind of carbs that offer quick, easy energy—and are typically full of sugar and calories. But you can rev up your engine naturally with good-for-you foods.

Protein-packed, fibre-rich foods like nuts, seeds, beans, and whole grains provide essential nutrients while making the body work harder to break them down, burning more fat and calories in the process. Other foods, like dark chocolate, chili peppers, and cinnamon, contain unique compounds that serve to invigorate your central nervous system and kick up the burn. Still others, like avocado and coconut oil, are rich in essential fatty acids, monounsaturated fats, and antioxidants that help keep your metabolism chugging and inflammation in check.

Our whole-grain-filled breads that are sprouted to boost nutrients and ease digestion offer an ideal base for giving your body a fat-burning boost. Kick that afternoon slump with these tasty toast toppers:

Dig into the delciousness that made avocado toast a thing. Smash the meat of one ripe avocado with a pinch of sea salt and a splash of lime juice. Spread on toasted slices of our flax seed-fueled Sprouted Power Mack’s Flax™ Bread and top with crisp, colorful sliced bell peppers and tomatoes.

In a food processor or blender, combine 1 15-ounce can black beans with 1 tablespoon finely chopped chili pepper, 2 minced garlic cloves, ¼ cup fresh cilantro, 1 tablespoon tahini, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, and the juice of one lime. Spread on toasted slices of our Sprouted Power The Big 16™ Bread and top with arugula.

Combine 1 cup nut butter in a food processor with 2 ounces finely chopped dark chocolate, 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, a splash of vanilla, and a dash of ground chili or cayenne pepper, and sea salt. Slather onto our Sprouted Power Squirrelly™ Bread for an energizing treat.

Transform chia seeds, peaches, and berries into a quick, healthy jam in minutes with our delicious recipe. Spread over toasted slices of our Sprouted Power Organic Multigrain™ Bread and top with whipped coconut cream for a dreamy breakfast that tastes like dessert.