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10 Foods For Energy

By: Brenna Coleman

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Find out about 10 foods for energy. These foods can be used to combat fatigue, boost energy levels, and to help get you through the day. Rich in vitamins, minerals, healthy fats and protein, these ten foods will give you that energy kick that you are looking for. Try mixing a few of these foods together, enjoying them as a snack, or incorporating them into an energizing, healthy breakfast.

  1. Pistachios. These nuts are great for sustaining energy, because they are high in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, protein and phytochemicals. A one ounce serving will keep you going for hours, balancing blood sugar levels and providing plenty of energy. Pistachios also help to lower cholesterol levels as an added benefit.
  2. Yogurt. A good source of B vitamins, which are needed for energy production, as well as potassium for a healthy heart, yogurt is definitely one of the best foods for energy. It is also a great source of probiotics, which improve digestion and immune health.
  3. Black licorice. As long as you find black licorice that is made with real licorice extract, you are eating an energy food. Licorice helps to nourish the adrenal glands, reducing adrenal fatigue. This is a great food for energy if you have problems with chronic stress and exhaustion.
  4. Grapefruit. This citrus fruit is extremely high in vitamin C, which is so important for overall well-being and for maintaining proper energy levels. It is also a great source of antioxidants and helps to lower cholesterol levels. Try eating a grapefruit with breakfast for the extra, energizing nutrition.
  5. Tofu. A plant-based protein, tofu is easy for the body to digest, providing you with readily available calcium, iron and magnesium. With plenty of protein and healthy unsaturated fatty acids, tofu will keep you full and energized for hours, without slowing you down like red meat does.
  6. Oatmeal. This is still one of the best energizing breakfast foods. Oats are not only rich in B vitamins and complex carbohydrates for energy, but also have fiber, which leaves you feeling full, but not sluggish.
  7. Peanut butter. Also rich in protein and fat, one tablespoon of peanut butter, spread on a slice of whole wheat bread, is one of the best foods for energy. It also tastes great! Peanut butter is also a good source of fiber, vitamin E, magnesium, potassium and copper. Go for natural peanut butter for best results.
  8. Bananas. This is a fast energy-rich food. Eat a banana for a quick energy boost. This fruit is also rich in potassium and is great for the heart.
  9. Dark chocolate. A piece of dark chocolate does have a small amount of caffeine, and it will definitely energize you. It's also good for you as dark chocolate is one of the best sources of antioxidants that you can eat!
  10. Coconut. Not many people eat coconut on a regular basis, but this tropical treat is one of the ten best foods for energy. Why? Because the fatty acids in coconut are turned into energy without having to go through the liver for processing. This is a great source of nutrients and energy, which doesn't put a strain on the body during digestion.
     
Posted on: Oct. 06, 2010