8 Best Foods for energy levels
If you're in need of a quick energy boost, the allure of energy drinks and protein bars might be enticing, but the truth is, your body craves simple, whole foods!
Whole foods are natural, unprocessed, unrefined, and free from artificial ingredients, offering an array of vital nutrients to fuel and energize your body. Typically found in the perimeter of the grocery store, these foods include fruits, veggies, animal protein, and whole grains.
A lot of these foods have been overlooked and feared for so long. Remember that when consuming these foods, quality matters.
Highlighted below are specific foods known for containing nutrients that can boost energy, including carbohydrates, fats, B vitamins, and caffeine.
Pasture-Raised Eggs:
Pasture-raised eggs are a long-overlooked superfood rich in protein from the whites and fat from the yolks.
They are abundant in B vitamins and various minerals, specifically targeted at increasing energy levels.
Hard-boiled eggs make for an easy and convenient snack on the go.
Wild-Caught Salmon:
Nutrient-dense wild-caught salmon is packed with protein, healthy fats (omega-3s), B vitamins, and minerals.
The healthy fats in salmon provide a sustained source of energy, while B vitamins support various enzymatic processes(1).
Incorporate salmon into meals or opt for wild-caught salmon jerky for a convenient on-the-go option.
Walnuts:
Walnuts, part of the tree nut family, are an excellent source of omega-3s, protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
Ideal for trail mix, combining them with high-quality chocolate adds both energy and flavor.
Bananas:
Rich in complex carbohydrates, bananas provide a quick-burning source of energy, making them an excellent pre-workout option.
Despite their sugar content, the complex carbohydrates in bananas digest slowly, offering steady energy and stable blood sugar levels(2).
Bananas are also a good source of vitamin B6, fiber, potassium, and manganese.
Carrots:
Carrots contribute to digestion with their high-water content and are rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, potassium, and B vitamins.
Consuming one raw organic carrot per day, with the skin on, can do wonders for your digestion and energy.
Chocolate:
High-quality chocolate, especially dark chocolate, contains a small amount of caffeine and theobromine, providing a stimulating effect.
Look for chocolate with 70% or higher organic cacao content for optimal benefits. I recommend one like this
Coconut Water:
Hydration is key for optimal energy. When plain water gets boring, opt for a high-quality electrolyte beverage like coconut water.
Ensure the only ingredient is organic coconut water for optimal hydration. I recommend this one - harmless harvest
Coffee/Tea:
Organic, whole-food sources of caffeine, such as coffee, tea, or cacao, offer an energy boost along with additional nutritions that will benefit your body.
Caffeine, found in more than 60 plant species, has benefits ranging from improved memory to enhanced physical performance(3)
Whether you're experiencing a dip in energy or seeking a brainpower boost, incorporating these nutrient-dense foods into your diet will undoubtedly fuel your body. Consistently integrating them and focusing on a balance of high-quality protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs throughout the day is key to maintaining a nourished and vibrant system with sustained energy.
Sources:
1. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health - B Vitamins
2. EverydayHealth.com - Carbohydrates: Your Body's Most Important Source of Fuel
3. Medical News Today - Caffeine: Benefits, Risks, and Effects
