Foods that Increase Energy: Learn how you can Boost Energy Levels With Healthy Foods

Foods that Increase Energy

Our bodies depend on eating the right foods to maintain high levels of energy. It is important to eat well-balanced meals and is best to eat small meals four to six times throughout the day. Spacing meals helps to regulate blood sugar, thus maintaining good energy levels at all times while awake.

Carbohydrates

All carbohydrates produce energy. Simple carbohydrates are digested and absorbed quickly into the blood stream. This supplies a quick source of energy that only lasts a short time. Complex carbohydrates take longer to break down and provide a longer and steadier stream of energy throughout your day.

Rice bran, barley, whole wheat spaghetti, oatmeal, pumpernickel and whole grain bread, brown rice, fresh cherries, dried apricots, and raw apples are excellent foods that increase energy over a long period of time.

Fats

Our bodies can’t function without healthy fats. They are our most concentrated energy source (9 calories per gram), they slow down the digestion of carbohydrates, and they help keep insulin levels lower.

Fish oils, flaxseed oil, extra-virgin olive oil, avocados, and nuts and seeds are foods that increase energy with healthy fats our body needs.

Protein

Protein foods contain tyrosine, an amino acid. Tyrosine stimulates the brain to produce dopamine and norepinephrine, two chemicals that increase energy and mental alertness. Protein-rich foods digest slowly and provide a reliable, steady source of energy.

Lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, low-fat cottage cheese, beans, and legumes are very good sources of protein-rich foods that increase energy.

In addition to eating foods that increase energy:

Drink more water and avoid or limit beverages that contain caffeine. People who are dehydrated, feel sluggish.

Exercise regularly, at least four times a week. With regular exercise, your body releases energizing compounds (endorphins).

Get seven to eight hours of good sleep every night. A good nights sleep can greatly increase energy levels during the day.

Avoid or limit alcohol to one drink a day. Alcohol can rob your body of important nutrients and, if consumed before bed time, it can disrupt sleep.

Disclaimer

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