Some foods are simply better at making you more feel more energized to help you through your day. We all need the proper fuel required to keep us going at full tilt and the foods we eat certainly plays a significant role in our daily energy levels. This is especially true if you plan to tack on a visit to the gym at the end of a long day. If you’re energy level has been lagging a little lately, you may want to give these healthy, energy packed foods a try.

EGGS
One key nutrient that produces energy, especially during exercise, is the amino acid leucine and eggs are packed with it. Eggs are also a source high quality protein that delays the absorption of sugar allowing for an elevated energy level for longer periods of time. Eggs also contain several B vitamins used for energy production.

CLAMS
No other vitamin produces energy like vitamin B12 and no other food has more B12 than clams. A top-notch source of iron and lean protein, clams also supply us with the amino acid tyrosine which is used to help keep our brain alert.

PORK TENDERLOIN
This white meat has just as many vitamins and minerals as red meat and with less fat, up to a third less fat. It’s also higher in B vitamins riboflavin and thiamin which the body uses to convert food into energy.

BEANS
Beans are an excellent source of B vitamins as well as magnesium and potassium, all good for giving you an energy boost. They also contain fibre which keeps you feeling fuller longer. Add them to salads and soups or eat them on their own.

APPLES
Aside from their excellent nutritional content, apples also contain a compound called quercetin. This compound, found mostly in the apple’s skin, has cell-activation properties that not only benefits health but also increases exercise endurance.

OATS
Eating just half a cup of oats for breakfast will give you the energy you need to help you get through the morning. The carbohydrates in oatmeal are released slowly into the bloodstream keeping energy levels steady and appetite under control.

BANANAS
Bananas contain a combination of both slow and fast digesting carbohydrates causing immediate and long lasting energy and are high in B vitamins. Bananas are also an excellent source of potassium. Potassium deficiency can cause fatigue and cramping of the muscles.

When shopping for high energy foods, always look for foods that are high in B vitamins, especially vitamin B12. Maintain your energy levels throughout the day by eating five or six small meals that are spaced every three or four hours apart. This also will keep your metabolism at a higher level which is important for maintaining a healthy weight. Also remember that carbohydrates are the main energy source for both the body and mind and shouldn’t be neglected when looking for high energy foods.

Contributing Editor: Becky Bullard

Tagged as: Fitness and Exercise, Nutrition