Top 5 Foods for Energy Boosting

Feeling sluggish day after day? Rather than turn to chemical or sugar-laden energy boosters, why not try nature's energy boosters? In no particular order, the following are five great foods to eat for their high-energy benefits.

Oatmeal

Containing vitamin b, this food is a low glycemic index food that keeps you feeling energized for a long period of time. One cup of oatmeal contains 145 calories and only 2 grams of fat.

Apples

The antioxidants and fiber in apples helps create a natural energy boost for the body. One medium apple contains 65 calories and no fat. Apples are also credited with elevated mood.

Bananas

One medium banana contains 27 grams of carbohydrates that are easily digested by the body and then turned into energy. The potassium in bananas provides nerve and muscle benefits for athletes who consume the fruit for energy. One medium banana also contains less than one gram of fat and 105 calories.

Yogurt

The carbs and low fat in yogurt help create a quick and healthy way to get an energy boost during the day. Calories and fat vary depending on variety of yogurt.

Almonds

The omega-3 and omega-6 in almonds give you a mental boost of energy for increased alertness. The magnesium in almonds helps the body create energy from sugar. 12 raw almonds contain 83 calories and 7 grams of fat.

Things to Consider

When choosing foods for an energy boost its important to keep a few facts in mind:

Dehydration leads to feelings of fatigue. Its important to keep well-hydrated in order to feel energetic. Be sure to drink plenty of water each day.

Vitamin B and Iron are both energy-givers. Foods rich in either are helpful in the quest for a natural energy boost.

Excessive amounts of sugar and caffeine may offer a temporary energy boost, but they come with a price, as well. That price is a serious 'crash and burn' depletion of energy later. Opt for better sources of energy boosts.

Eating breakfast really does make a difference. Keeping blood sugar levels even through out the day, and starting off the day with a balanced meal are great ways to get and keep energy. Studies have shown that eating breakfast can help elevate mood, too.

Sources:

Foods That Boost Energy. Kelly Bastone. Runner's World. March 1, 2007. http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-242-300-11605-0,00.html

11 Energy-Boosting Snacks. Lisa Kovalovich. Fitness Magazine. December 2005. http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/recipes/snacks/healthy/11-energy-boosting-snacks/

Energy boosting foods: these 10 foods will keep your motor revving all day and all night. Men's Fitness. May 2003. http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1608/is_5_19/ai_100545121/pg_2/?tag=content;col1

Energy Foods Slideshow: A Diet to Boost Your Mood & Energy Level. WebMD. http://www.webmd.com/diet/slideshow-energy-mood-boost-diet