9 Foods that Can Boost Your Energy

Written by
Joan Hodges 
Running low on energy? The answer may be in your pantry.

When people want more energy, they typically end up consuming sugary coffee or energy drinks to artificially boost their slump. Trust us, there is a much better way.

Though there's no substitute for good sleep (be sure to catch up on that later), these all-natural energy remedies will have you up and running again in no time—and you won't crash a few hours later.
Water
1 of 10
It sounds simple, but water is an amazing energy booster for your system. Typically, when your energy is low, dehydration is actually the culprit. Since your body is mostly made up of water, you're going to feel tired and sluggish when you've haven't had enough to drink.

It's important to stay hydrated throughout the day. Try and drink a glass of water every one or two hours, especially when you're feeling that mid-afternoon slump or an inability to concentrate.
16 Recipes that Hydrate
Peanut Butter
1 of 10
Peanut butter (or almond butter for those with allergies) is not only an excellent source of protein to help keep you full, but it also gives you energy. It has the perfect combination of healthy fats, protein, fiber and a little bit of sugar to meet all of your body's needs.

Eat it by itself or use as a dip for your favorite veggies or fruits. Just make sure to stick to one or two tablespoons so you don't feel weighed down afterwards.
6 Peanut Butter Alternative for Athletes
Matcha Tea
1 of 10
The energy-boosting powers of matcha tea are so great, you'll want to ingest this long before you go to bed.

Matcha tea is made up of powdered green tea leaves and delivers triple the caffeine of a regular tea in one simple and earthy drink. You can also get creative and use matcha for baking, soups and dips.

Just be sure to get a pure-grade matcha from its origin country of Japan. Since tealeaves naturally contain lead, you want to make sure you choose a brand with a reputable filtering process.
What is Matcha Tea?
Bananas
1 of 10
This is an excellent snack that's packed with the good stuff. Its primary nutrients—potassium, B vitamins and fiber—just happen to also help sustain energy. Whether you're in between meals and need a pick-me-up or you want a pre-workout snack that will help you perform, it can't get any more perfect than a banana.

It's even better with peanut butter, also an energy-boosting food.
8 Pre-Workout Ways to Fuel with Bananas
Dark Chocolate
1 of 10
Yes, chocolate is healthy, too. With its natural caffeine it can be a great alternative to coffee. Plus, it's a rich source of phytochemicals, just like the kind you get from fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Not to mention, it's delicious. Who doesn't love a good piece of dark chocolate in the afternoon?
Is Chocolate a Health Food?
Nuts
1 of 10
Magnesium is the star energy-boosting nutrient in cashews, pistachios and almonds. Many people who feel sluggish are actually deficient in magnesium, so nuts are a great solution.

These little guys are easy to keep around in your desk or as a non-perishable snack on-the-go. Plus, they're full of protein that will keep you full.
10 Easy Ways to Prevent Nutritional Deficiencies
Eggs
1 of 10
Are you seeing a common theme on this list? Protein is the key to sustaining energy level throughout the day, and a single egg has six grams of protein. Plus, eggs are rich in numerous vitamins—Vitamins B2, B12 and A, to name a few—so consider starting off your day with this nutritious food.
6 Strategies to Eat Better
Hummus
1 of 10
Because hummus is mostly made up of beans, it delivers a fantastic one-two punch to your day by giving you a dose of both fiber and protein. This will help stabilize your blood sugar, so you don't feel so drowsy come mid-afternoon.

Eat hummus with vegetables for an even healthier snack.
10 Healthy High-Protein Snacks
Salmon
1 of 10
Salmon contains essential omega-3 fatty acids, which your body can't make on its own and must get from food. These fats are crucial for cell function and can even boost your mood throughout the day.

Pack a salad with salmon for lunch or enjoy a cut of salmon for dinner. Not only will your energy improve, but the heart-protecting benefits of omega 3's don't hurt either.
8 Ways to Eat More Protein
1 of 10

About the Author

Joan Hodges ACTIVE.com Contributor
Joan Hodges writes nutrition articles for ACTIVE.com. As a health and wellness blogger based in Dallas, Texas, she has been inspired by her own journey of full mental and physical recovery. Joan is a devout yogi, dog lover and self-love advocate. You can read about her health journey here.