The 7 Best Foods for Energy

Adequate energy is directly related to adequate nutrition and rest. If your energy levels are low, don't reach for an energy drink. The best approach is to start with your diet.

Some of the most basic and readily available foods provide nutrients that are full of high-quality, sustainable energy. Some of these foods can give an immediate energy surge while others bestow a sustained, long-term energy increase. In addition to energy, the following seven foods offer incredible health benefits!

Best Energy-Boosting Foods

While there are numerous others, I've found these to be the best energy-boosting foods. Try them out!

1. Beets & Beet Juice

Beets are an excellent source of folate, manganese, and vitamin C. They also contain phytonutrients called betalains which possess antioxidant properties that can help detoxify the body. And, especially for athletes, they have even been found to provide incredible energy support. Did you know that beetroot juice supplementation can increase stamina and energy by 15 percent during exercise?^[1]

2. Quinoa

This gluten-free grain from the Andes contains more protein, fatty acids, and antioxidants than other grains.Quinoa is rich in the amino acids lysine, methionine, and cysteine, and is also an excellent source of folate, magnesium, and manganese. Its unique blend of carbohydrates, proteins, and phytonutrients make it a highly nutritious and ideal food for energy support.^[2]

3. Nuts

Nuts are a great source of nutrition. The nuts you want to specifically look for are walnuts, almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, and pistachios. In addition to providing high-quality protein, they also contain carotenoids, phenolic acids, phytosterols, and flavonoids.^{[3, 4]} These highly bioavailable nutrients promote physical and mental well-being, helping the body sustain higher energy levels.

4. Spinach

Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K and minerals such as calcium, potassium, and iron, spinach rightly deserves its place among the highly nutritious and potent superfoods. It also contains magnesium. This element has been acknowledged as contributing to over 300 metabolic functions, including the production and storage of cellular energy.^[5] Spinach provides magnesium in a highly bioavailable form for both short-term and long-term benefits.

5. Coffee

Everyone knows the caffeine in coffee offers a quick energy boost. But while it can stimulate mental alertness, coffee is also packed with antioxidants. Coffee drinkers even enjoy more long-term energy! Plus, coffee drinkers have been found to enjoy better moods and overall better health coming from its protective effects against cellular degeneration.^{[6, 7]}

6. Chocolate

To get the health benefits of chocolate, avoid candy bars and super sweet chocolates in favor of dark chocolate. The flavonoids in cocoa support blood flow and brain function.^[8] This helps with mood support and balanced energy levels.

7. Sweet Potatoes

With a combination of high fiber and complex carbohydrates, sweet potatoes provide you with a steady supply of energy. They also can keep you full longer. With a natural sweetness, they are a great option for carb-lovers who want a low-glycemic option. They also contain high levels of manganese, a mineral that helps break down nutrients to produce energy for the body.

Check out these seven foods if you want to increase your energy levels. You will feel better and more energized, and enjoy the added health benefits they provide!