The Best Foods to Eat when You Need a Jolt of Energy ...

Eliza

Don’t you just hate that slump you feel around 3:00pm when you think you’ll never make it through the rest of the day? If you’re like me, you might hit the vending machine for a soda or a candy bar to give you a quick dose of energy. While it’s true that these items will give you some energy, you likely crash not long afterward when the sugar is metabolized by your body. It turns out that some foods are prime choices for giving you healthy and long-lasting energy. So I went to the experts at All You magazine and gathered the most delicious choices for you.

1. You Can Never Go Wrong with a Handful of Almonds

You Can Never Go Wrong with a Handful of Almonds Almonds are a wonderful choice when you need a quick jolt of energy during the day. They are easy to eat and you can take them on the go if you need to. They’re great for energy because they are packed with fiber, protein, vitamin E and healthy fats, all of which give your body energy to get through the day. The fiber digests slowly, giving you longer lasting energy while also satisfying your appetite. Pro athletes count almonds as one of their best pre-workout foods. If they work for them, they’ll definitely work for you.

2. A Hard-Boiled Egg is an Easy and Energy Boosting Snack

A Hard-Boiled Egg is an Easy and Energy Boosting Snack I like to make a pot of hard-boiled eggs at the beginning of the week. Then I can just grab one when I get hungry. Peeling an egg takes very little effort and makes for a fast and delicious way to reenergize yourself midday. Eggs contain protein and vitamins A and D, which promote a healthy metabolism. You’ve got to eat the yolk for the full energy benefits, but if you prefer scrambled or fried eggs, they work as well.

3. A Container of Greek Yogurt Tastes Oh so Good!

A Container of Greek Yogurt Tastes Oh so Good! Whether you’re at home chasing toddlers in the afternoon or you’re at the office securing new clients, Greek yogurt is the perfect choice. You can buy it in pre-portioned servings so you can just grab one and chow down. Be careful with the flavored versions as they are often very high in sugar. Greek yogurt has tons of protein and good carbs to give you lots of energy while also satisfying your appetite.

4. An Apple a Day Does More than Keep the Doctor Away

An Apple a Day Does More than Keep the Doctor Away Apples are one of the most budget-friendly and healthy choices for anyone’s meal plan. In addition to their wealth of vitamins and minerals, apples are packed full of fiber for energy that lasts for hours. Apples, like most kinds of fruit, also contain the good kind of carbs, which your body needs for adequate fuel. What’s your favorite type of apple?

5. Oatmeal Isn’t Just for Breakfast Anymore

Oatmeal Isn’t Just for Breakfast Anymore You know how soothing a nice, warm bowl of oatmeal can be, right? That makes it a great choice anytime you need a pick-me-up. Take a container of instant oatmeal to work and you’ll never be the victim of that late energy slump ever again. You can also enjoy oatmeal in the morning if you’re having a tough time getting going. Yum!

6. A Lunchtime Spinach Salad is a Tasty Choice for Energy

A Lunchtime Spinach Salad is a Tasty Choice for Energy Spinach is a great source of folate, a nutrient that helps turn your foods into energy for your body to use. Spinach also contains plenty of water, which helps keep you hydrated. Getting too low in fluids can cause fatigue so it pays to watch your water intake. Spinach also contains a wealth of iron, which boosts energy. A lovely spinach salad at lunchtime makes one healthy choice!

7. You Knew Quinoa Would Make the List, Didn’t You?

You Knew Quinoa Would Make the List, Didn’t You? Quinoa is a grain that contains a load of fiber for energy. The great thing about quinoa is that you can eat it hot or cold. It makes a wonderful side dish with your leftover chicken or fish at lunchtime, but you can also serve it cold, kind of like pudding. You can also toss quinoa into salads or soups for an easy boost of energy. The protein in quinoa also adds to your energy levels.

Which of these foods do you love best? Will you be chowing down on any of them today when you get tired?

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More great choices of energy are bananas, raisins, natural peanut butter, dates, and chia seeds!