When you need an energy boost, stay away from the soda and the sugary candies as they’ll only lead you down the road to a sugar crash!
All foods give you energy, but some foods do a better job than others because they contain nutrients that boost your energy levels and help you be more alert and focused. The following foods have been proven to boost and maintain higher energy levels and leave you feeling great all day!
- Honey:
A spoonful of honey is nature’s equivalent of an energy drink!
Low on the glycemic index, this natural sweetener acts as a time-released muscle fuel during exercise and helps replenish muscles post-workout. Add a sweet drizzle to anything from breakfast yogurt to afternoon tea.
- Oranges:
High in vitamin C, potassium, and folic acid, this citrus fruit rations out energy steadily over time instead of giving you a quick sugar rush.
Peel and eat an orange whole to benefit from the pectin and fiber in the fruit’s membranes.
- Chia and flax seeds:
These are popular for a reason! They are rich in fiber and heart-healthy fats and help keep your digestive tract moving smoothly, which is key for optimal metabolism.
Chia seeds are unique in their ability to absorb liquids, creating a gel that helps you feel fuller longer.
- Quinoa:
Quinoa is a very special food for many reasons, including its protein and fiber content, but it also acts to help sustain you by being a complex carbohydrate. It’s also a great energy source if you’re working out, thanks to the essential amino acids it contains.
It can be used as a side dish or used as the main ingredient of a meal.
- Mushrooms:
One cup of mushrooms provides almost 50% of your daily serving of iron, which is essential in transporting oxygen within the bloodstream. Without an efficient oxygen supply to our major organs, we can often feel fatigued and lethargic.
Consuming mushrooms will boost the level of iron in your body, boosting the cells within the blood’s ability to transport oxygen around your body and fuel your organs to function effectively.
- Sweet Potatoes:
Sweet potatoes contain iron, potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, and vitamin D, all of which help to increase energy levels and stop you from feeling tired.
Sweet potatoes are hugely versatile and you can enjoy them mashed, grilled, steamed, roasted, in a salad, by themselves, or in a curry.
- Coconut Water:
Drinking coconut water is one of the best ways to naturally rehydrate the body. It is packed full of electrolytes and has detoxifying properties.
Young coconuts are best, and can sometimes be found at your local health food store. If not you can find coconut water in cartons or cans in most health food grocery stores.
- Apricots:
Apricots are a great natural energy booster fruit for our bodies and can be eaten fresh or dried.
Try to add some apricots to your diet for a daily boost of energy, fiber, and vitamin C.
So there you have it! Pick the ones you like and start incorporating them into your diet. Also, make sure to get plenty of sleep and don’t skip workouts!
Disclaimer: This is not to be taken as medical advice. Please advise a healthcare professional or nutritionist before making any drastic changes to your lifestyle.