Clean Foods That Boost Energy

I don’t know if it’s all of the intensely cold, snowy days lately, but sometimes I struggle with keeping my energy levels up. Working out helps, but sometimes I find myself just wanting to take a nice, long nap (wrapped up in a big, warm comforter, of course!). I’ve been seeking out foods that boost energy, and I thought I’d share what I have found so far in case anyone else out there is struggling with their energy levels. (By the way, I can’t wait for spring to get here!)

Foods That Boost Energy

When it comes to keeping energy levels up, it’s not a good idea to eat foods that cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels. Sure, you get an immediate “rush” from eating chocolate or drinking a soda, but you will crash soon after and probably feel even worse. To boost energy and keep energy levels up, we need to eat foods that a slow and steady release of energy. Here are some foods that will keep your body “on-the-go” for longer periods of time:

• Oatmeal
• Wheat pasta
• Brown rice
• Nuts
• Fish
• Chicken
• Avocados
• Low-fat yogurt
• Bananas
• Beans

It’s a good idea to make sure meals are balanced by combining protein with complex carbs.  So something like a peanut butter sandwich on whole grain bread is a good combo or chicken wrapped in a whole grain tortilla is another favorite of mine.  Also, making sure that I eat 5 or 6 smaller meals a day seems to help keep my energy up as well.

While not a food, I have found that drinking green tea, either hot or iced, gives me enough energy to avoid an “afternoon slump.”