I’m always on the hunt for natural ways to maintain my energy throughout the day and avoid those rollercoaster highs and lows caused by coffee, pastries, energy drinks, and other high-sugar food and drinks. For healthy, sustained energy, try incorporating these natural energy boosters into your diet:
Almonds
If I start to feel lethargic in the afternoon, almonds are my go-to snack. Rich in B vitamins and magnesium, nutrients linked with energy production, almonds can help combat tiredness, irritability, and poor concentration. Along with these benefits, almonds contain monounsaturated fats, which promote healthy brain function and heart health.
Beets
Packed with nitrates, compounds that increase blood circulation and help combat erectile dysfunction, beets and beet juice can improve energy and endurance. You can consume beets in energy supplements or create your own beet juice by blending one raw beet with some ginger, lemon juice, and water. The taste isn’t for everyone, but it’s definitely a great morning detox drink.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is made up of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and contains many health benefits, including enhanced thyroid function and increased energy and endurance. Its composition is what sets it apart from other vegetable and seed oils, which mainly consist of long-chain triglycerides. Add raw coconut oil to your morning green tea or enjoy a tablespoon during the day when your energy starts to dip.
Dark Chocolate
While I used to avoid chocolate, I now can’t resist it. When consumed in moderation, dark chocolate can provide a great energy boost. It’s high in cacao, which contains minerals and flavonoids (antioxidants) that impact blood pressure and blood flow to the heart and brain. Look for chocolate that has a cacao content of 70-100%, depending on your taste preference. The higher the cacao content, the more bitter the chocolate.
Quinoa
Quinoa is not only delicious but also a fantastic energy-boosting food. A complete protein, it offers healthy fats, antioxidants, manganese, copper, dietary fiber, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. Use quinoa as a substitute for rice or enjoy it in salads as a side dish.
Salmon
The protein found in salmon provides the best source of sustained energy. Not only is salmon one of the healthiest proteins, but it’s also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which promote brain health and fight against inflammation-induced depression. Be sure to include “wild-caught” and sustainably sourced salmon in your menu at least once a week to boost your energy levels.
Watermelon
Watermelon contains L-citrulline, an amino acid that enhances nitric oxide levels in the body, relaxes blood vessels, and improves blood flow. Healthy blood flow is critical for a healthy heart and strong erectile function, making L-citrulline supplements beneficial for men’s sexual health and libido as well as promoting improved energy levels.
In conclusion, being conscious of how the food you eat affects your mood and energy levels is important. Making mental notes of what works and what doesn’t will help you find the right balance to keep your energy sustained and balanced throughout the day.
