There is no reason that you should have to rely on the metabolism-killing energy drink industry in order to feel properly motivated. There are plenty of natural foods that boost energy in a much healthier way. Here are our top choices for all-day natural energy.
Foods, Herbs and Spices That Boost Energy Naturally
Nuts
Hazelnuts, almonds, cashews and the like contain the energy-boosting compound magnesium, a substance that will naturally boost energy by helping your body turn sugar into energy. The reason that nuts are better than magnesium-filled energy drinks is that they also have natural fiber that will help to balance your blood sugar rather than spiking it. The proteins in nuts will also help to regulate the hunger that you feel from eating such a small snack (hint: weight loss). As an added bonus, nuts are also great libido-boosters!
Berries
Many of the berries that you can find everywhere such as blueberries, blackberries and even raspberries are high in B vitamins, nutrients that energy drinks tend to play up. If you look on the back of an energy drink for the nutrition information, you will usually see it contains many hundreds of percentages of the recommended daily dose of vitamin B. This would be great if your body could absorb it all, but it cannot. However, whole food vitamin sources like berries boost energy so much more effectively because your body has a much easier time utilizing all of the vitamins in the fruit.
Dark Chocolate
If you have a sweet tooth that just will not go away, dark chocolate is a great way to boost energy in a healthy way. Instead of the caffeine overdose that comes with sugary convenience coffees, you will benefit from the natural stimulant theobromine, an energy and mood booster.
Whole Grain Bread
Whole grains are packed to the brim with complex carbohydrates, natural energy boosters that are full of minerals and vitamins. These extra vitamins and minerals actually help your body process the influx of carbohydrates the bread provides, ensuring that you receive its energy-boosting benefits.
Maca
Maca is a powerful Peruvian plant that has been cultivated for thousands of years to boost energy, stamina and libido, as well as for nourishment. As a better-tasting relative of the radish, it has started a revolution as a popular natural energy-booster that can be added to many recipes. As a solution for “tired” blood, maca is used to treat many conditions from menstrual problems and fertility issues to the maintenance of healthy sexual stamina and libido.
Cardamom
This is an Asian spice that goes well with many foods. It has the ability to promote healthy blood flow, which naturally increases energy by expanding the small blood vessels in the body. If you cannot find cardamom on its own, it’s also a prevalent ingredient in chai tea.