8 Foods That Increase Your Energy Naturally

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

About

Constance Tambakis Odom, MD graduated in 1987 with her Doctorate of Medicine from the New York Medical College, and was an Anesthesiologist Resident from 1988 to 1991 at the Brookdale Medical Center PGY II (CA-I)-PGY IV (CA-III). She is Board Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology since 1998 and American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine since 2002. Constance Odom, MD is affiliated with the American Medical Association, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, American Society of Anesthesiology, Georgia Society of Anesthesiology, Hellenic Medical Society of New York, North Carolina Society of Anesthesiology, and Society of Ambulatory Anesthesia.

Credentials

Medical Director At:

• Nu Image Medical
• MetroMedispa P.A.

Staff Anesthesiologist at:

• Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital in Dunn, NC
• Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, NC
• Duplin General Hospital in Kenansville, NC

Director of Anesthesia Services at:

• Jacksonville Surgery Center in Jacksonville, NC

Written by our editorial team.

Last Edited 9 years ago · 8 min read

Foods That Increase Your Energy

If you're looking for a quick boost of energy, a cup of coffee isn't  always your best option. There are plenty of natural foods that can keep your energy levels high throughout the day. When you eat the right foods that help keep your energy levels up, you will be less likely to snack on something unhealthy like junk food or a high sugar food. When you are more energetic throughout the day you are more likely to be able to maintain a healthy weight because you are also less likely to overeat. Below are eight of the best foods that can help you stay energetic and keep you avoid feeling lethargic as you go about your day:

Energy boosting food #1 - Avocados

Avocados are rich with healthy monounsaturated fats, and they are digest slowly so that you have a steady source of energy. They are surprisingly rich in fiber and they are also very filling, and the fats in avocados are actually good for your cardiovascular system and heart. There are plenty of different recipes and snacks that you can come up with using avocados such as dips, sandwich condiments, or they can be eaten alone with a bit of salt and lime. They do have a lot of calories per serving, but they provide a healthy balance of fat, protein, carbohydrates and fiber that can keep you feeling very satisfied that few other foods can offer.

Energy boosting food #2 - Blueberries

Blueberries are known as a "€œsuperfood"€ because they are rich in antioxidants, phytonutrients, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Eating just a handful of blueberries can provide you with a quick and steady source of energy because they have a low glycemic index and don't break down too quickly. Their high fiber content leaves you satisfied and they don't cause blood sugar spikes so they are healthy for anyone. They make a great addition to smoothies as well, and they are a convenient and healthy energy boosting snack. Wild blueberries are a great option because they have unique bioactive compounds, but if you can't get your hands on them farmed blueberries are also rich in macronutrients.

Energy boosting food #3 - Flax seeds

Flax seeds are highly packed with minerals, fiber, healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-cancer lignans. Flax seeds help your body burn abnormal fat and with their high fiber content they keep you feeling full. They are also rich in minerals like potassium, magnesium, calcium and folic acid, and they are one of the best sources for minerals. If you're trying to stay healthy and keep your energy levels and brain power high, it's important to consume plenty of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, and flax seeds are one of the best sources of these important fatty acids.

Energy boosting food #3 - Almonds

Almonds are packed with healthy fats and they have a high amount of calories per serving, but the calories in almonds are not thought to contribute to weight gain. Eating a handful of almonds can provide you with a quick breakfast or a convenient pre-workout meal, and their portability makes them a great processed food or junk food alternative. They are packed with minerals and they help to balance blood sugar levels because they are digested slowly, and they are one of the best foods to eat to stave off hunger before your next meal so that you won't overeat.

Energy boosting food #4 - Coconut

Coconut, or in particular coconut oil, is one of the healthiest oils that you can consume on a regular basis. Most people should stick to coconut and extra virgin olive oil along with a few other healthy oils. Coconut oil is rich in medium chain triglycerides which are healthy, and it is difficult to find these fatty acids in other foods. Your body uses medium chain triglycerides to produce energy, and you will most likely find that you will feel energetic after you eat a meal made with coconut oil. Some people believe that coconut oil is not good for you, however this is not true, the fatty acids in coconut oil are quickly digested by the body so that they are not converted into fat, and they can actually boost your metabolism.

Energy boosting food #5 - Salmon

Salmon is one of the healthiest fish options because they have a relatively low mercury content compared to other types of fish. They are a rich source of important omega-3 fatty acids and protein. A meal with salmon will keep you feeling satisfied for several hours, and the omega-3 fatty acids in salmon help reduce inflammation levels and promote healing. The protein in salmon is great for people who exercise regularly, and studies have shown that people who eat foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids on a regular basis are less likely to suffer from fatigue. You may find that your fatigue levels start to vanish when you eat more salmon and other foods that are rich in omega-3s, so always try to include as many of them in your diet as you can.

Energy boosting food #6 - Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is unique as a food because it has healthy bacteria that improve your digestive system and it is also rich in protein and calcium. It has carbohydrates as well, and there are low fat varieties and zero fat varieties available if you are concerned about dairy fat. However, many people believe that dairy fat is not as bad as previously thought, and organic varieties of greek yogurt are also available which are thought to have a healthier proportion of fats and also higher levels of energy boosting and fat burning conjugated linoleic acid.

Energy boosting food #7 - Red bell pepper

Red bell pepper is very high in vitamin C, and vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins for energy and for maintaining a healthy immune system. Eating red bell pepper and other foods that are high in vitamin C such as citrus fruits on a regular basis will help to keep you out of the doctor's office and are great workout recovery foods. Red bell pepper also provides a natural source of carbohydrates, which are also important to helping you feel active and alert throughout the day.

Energy boosting foods #8 - Eggs

Eggs are a great quick snack, and organic eggs from grass fed hens are the healthiest option available. Eggs are not bad for your healthy as once previously thought, and the high cholesterol content of eggs is not thought to be a direct contributor to any illnesses because dietary cholesterol does not directly influence the body's level of cholesterol. Eggs have a B-vitamin called choline which is important for energy production and can improve cognitive function. They are the perfect breakfast food and they are rich in protein and fat which can help you stay full and help you hit the ground running in the morning.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your physician about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Nu Image Medical may not offer the medications or services mentioned in this article.