Ten Natural Foods to Boost Your Energy

Being tired is no fun. Millions of dollars are spent each year on energy drinks and vitamin and mineral supplements. What everyone is overlooking is the natural food sources available full of vitamins, minerals and energy just waiting for us to eat them! Many people are under the mistaken concept that vitamin and mineral supplements provide energy. Vitamins assist the enzymes that release energy from carbohydrates, proteins and fats. We must be consuming the proper foods and nutrients before they can be broken down in our systems by the efforts of enzymes and turned into energy for the body.

There are some natural food sources that will help your body produce energy, releasing energy into your system throughout the day at points when you need it most. This is in contrast to the quick-fix high-carb foods like candy bars and soft drinks, which will give you a quick boost of energy but will also plunge back down very quicky leaving you tired and listless.

Here are ten natural food sources to add to your diet that will provide your body with that long-term energy boost that is so needed!

1) Whole grains are high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. They also contain antioxidants, much like fruits and vegetables. Whole grains actually slow the breakdown and absorption of sugar by the body. Sources of whole grains are whole grain bread, rice and pasta.

2) Oatmeal has long been known as a heart-healthy food effective in reducing bad cholesterol levels in the body. It is also one of the best sources of soluble fiber for the body.

3) Pasta is very high in complex carbohydrates while low in carlories, sodium and fat. These are good carbs to load up on as opposed to candy bars and soda.

4) Yogurt - A quick cup of yogurt is fast and provides 17 grams of carbohydrates and 13 grams of protein. Just what your body needs for a quick source of energy!

5) Salmon is high in protein and the omega-3 fats that are essential to good heart health. They also contain B-vitamins, which can boost cardiovascular health and increase your energy level.

6) Bananas are packed with potassium which help muscle function and coordination. They can help prevent stiffness and that tired feeling from sitting at a desk all day!

7) Orange juice is great for an early morning boost of energy, loaded with vitamin C. Vitamin C helps your body break down and absorb the iron from other food sources.

8) Beans are so simple to cook, and they are full of vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber. Beans are easy to add to the diet in soups, dips, spreads and added to pasta salads.

9) Almonds are one of the best sources of vitamin E and magnesium. They are one of most nutrient-dense nuts in existence.

10) Dried fruit - Keep dried fruit at your desk for a quick energy pick-up. Dried fruits will not spoil and are full of vitamins and nutrients.

Sources:

http://www.healthchecksystems.com/vitamins.htm

http://www.qualityhealth.com/eating-nutrition-articles/10-foods-give-you-energy

http://dietpulpit.com/844/healthy-foods-to-give-you-a-natural-boost/

http://www.ific.org/publications/brochures/tentipskidsbroch.cfm