The food you eat is made up of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats that your body then uses as fuel. This fuel powers your metabolism and keeps you going throughout the day.
Unfortunately, some foods, such as fried foods, meats, and high-fiber veggies, can feel draining rather than energizing. This is because they are more challenging for your body to digest, so breaking them down uses up your energy rather than providing it.
On the other hand, some amazing foods will naturally boost your energy levels and help you stay energized throughout the day. Here are 8 of the best foods that you should incorporate into your diet to keep your energy levels up:
Nuts
Nuts are a perfect snack for a boost of energy. They are packed with healthy fats, proteins, and fiber to give you the fuel you need for a natural boost during the day.
You can try many different nuts, including almonds, walnuts, peanuts, cashews, and pistachios. They are also effortless to carry around with you for a filling, on-the-go snack.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is one of the healthiest breakfast meals for long-lasting energy throughout the morning. It is high in complex carbohydrates and fiber, which your body slowly breaks down to provide a steady stream of energy.
You can also add fruits and nuts to boost the flavor and nutrition of your oatmeal bowl.
Bananas
Bananas are high in potassium, magnesium, and other vitamins that help to improve your energy levels and provide important nutrients for your body. They are also packed with natural sugars that boost energy without causing a sugar crash.
Berries
Berries are bursting with flavor and nutrition, and they are a great way to get an energy boost. They also have high levels of antioxidants to help protect your body from free radical damage.
The sweet and tart flavors of berries can provide a tasty treat for elevating your mood and giving you that extra boost you need.
Fish
Seafood is generally high in protein and essential fatty acids that give your body the energy it needs. Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to beneficial effects all throughout the body, including your brain, muscles, and hormones. This means fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines can help your mind stay more alert while also helping your body stay energized.
Chicken
Chicken is a great source of lean protein. Protein helps to provide your body with the energy it needs for all sorts of activities, from physical exercise to mental work.
And since it is generally low in fat, chicken is also a great source of energy that won’t leave you feeling weighed down or sluggish.
Yogurt
Yogurt is a probiotic food that is beneficial for your gut health and helps to improve your digestion. This means that it provides you with great nutrition and helps ensure that your body can break down, absorb and utilize the nutrients from other foods as efficiently as possible.
You can enjoy it on its own or add some nuts and fruits for a more filling and energizing meal.
Dark Chocolate
While most candies and sweet treats should be avoided due to their high sugar content—which tends to cause an energy crash soon after, dark chocolate is actually quite nutritious. It can provide a more stable energy boost.
Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants, magnesium, iron, and other minerals that can help to improve your overall health and energy levels. Just be sure to stick with dark chocolate that is at least 70% cocoa and doesn’t contain added sugars and extra fats that can negate the healthy benefits of the chocolate.
