5 Energy-Boosting Foods to Add to Your Grocery List

Eat Bananas for a Pre-Workout Energy Boost

The perfect pre-workout energy boost might be simpler than you think. Bananas are the ideal energy-boosting food, as they’re packed with vitamins and nutrients that promote a gradual release of energy throughout your gym session. Your body will appreciate the potassium, fiber, and vitamin B6 that this convenient yellow package offers, whether you eat it before or after a workout.

Sweeten With Honey for Extra Fuel

When you feel that familiar sense of fatigue set in, you might be tempted to reach for a cup of coffee or an energy drink. Rather than loading up on stimulants that may give you a brief rush of energy before wearing off completely, try a natural boost instead. Honey is low on the glycemic index, which means it offers a gradual boost during and after a workout. Try adding a spoonful to plain Greek yogurt for a protein-packed treat.

Snack on Nuts for a Natural Energy Boost

While honey-roasted nuts and highly processed nut butters are more likely to slow you down, plain roasted nuts and natural nut butters offer a natural energy boost. Pistachios are packed with protein that can help fuel and rebuild your muscles, and these distinctive green nuts also have a healthy ratio of saturated to unsaturated fats.

Peanut butter and almond butter can keep your blood sugar stable, especially if you opt for a natural version. Rather than eating nut butter with white bread, go for whole-grain or your favorite fruit instead.

Fuel Up With Fiber-Rich Foods

If you find that you’re constantly reaching for carbohydrate-heavy snacks to stay fueled, try adding more fiber-rich foods to your diet instead. Not only can fiber-rich foods control your blood sugar level and lower your cholesterol level, but they can also help you feel full while offering a slow release of energy. Try combining fiber-rich snacks with other healthy food options, like dipping fiber-rich apples in peanut butter or enjoying whole-grain oatmeal with nuts and dried fruit.

Load Up on Omega-3s for a Brain Boost

When your energy-related needs go beyond your next sweat session, try adding more foods with omega-3s to your diet. This fatty acid is considered a brain food because it can give your mood a boost while offering myriad other benefits. Try eating salmon, an omega-3-rich food, once a week, and you’ll find that it helps keep your blood pressure under control while helping you feel more satisfied.

Whether you need more energy after a strenuous workout or throughout the day, eating right can help you meet your goals. Add these healthy foods to your shopping list and look forward to feeling and performing better.