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Everyone loves a boost of energy to kickstart the morning or shake off that 3 PM slump. Many people turn to caffeinated drinks like coffee or tea for a quick pick-me-up, but caffeine isn't the best option for everyone.
Caffeine can have a strong effect on some people and cause jumpiness, jitters, and even trouble sleeping. If this is you, and you want to boost your energy levels without the side effects of caffeine, you're in luck.
Ambassador Cohnan Kotarksi is back with more tips to improve our daily lives. This time, Cohnan is outlining ten nutritious foods that will naturally boost your energy without caffeine. Let's check them out.
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Bananas
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First up on the list of foods that naturally boost energy is bananas. According to Cohnan, bananas are a quick and reliable energy source, packed with natural sugars, potassium, and fibre for sustained energy.
Bananas also make for the perfect grab-and-go option before or after your workout—simple and delicious.
Almonds
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Next up we have a crunchy snack that's packed with nutrients—almonds. Cohnan explains that almonds are a powerhouse of healthy fats, protein, magnesium, and vitamin E, offering steady energy throughout the day.
Almonds are also a readily available snack you can take with you on the go. Plus, because they're nutrient-dense, they'll make you feel full, helping with appetite control.
Oats
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The third food on the list that'll help elevate your energy is oats. Cohnan points out that oats provide complex carbohydrates and soluble fibre, delivering slow-releasing energy. Ideal for breakfast or as a pre-workout snack.
Plus, oats are versatile—there are many ways to eat them, including overnight oats, oatmeal, or as granola on top of your yogurt to name a few.
Oranges
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Next, we have a sweet treat that'll provide nutrients, energy, and a refreshing splash of citrus—we're talking about oranges. Cohnan explains that oranges are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, plus they help combat fatigue and support energy production.
Oranges require little to no preparation and make for a great midday snack—simply slice one up and you're good to go.
Sweet Potatoes
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Another food that'll not only enhance your energy but provide quality nutrition is sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are loaded with complex carbs, beta-carotene, and fibre, making them an excellent choice for long-lasting energy according to our ambassador.
Plus, they're super simple to make—easily incorporate them into your meals or as a healthy snack any time of day.
Quinoa
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Next up for foods that enhance energy is quinoa. Cohnan notes that quinoa is rich in protein, iron, and complex carbs, making it an excellent energy-boosting alternative to traditional grains.
There are many ways to eat quinoa including in salads, soups, and as a base for grain bowls.
Pumpkin Seeds
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Another food that'll have you feeling energized is pumpkin seeds. While pumpkin is a seasonal favorite, the fruit's seeds are available year-round and have many health great benefits.
Cohnan highlights that pumpkin seeds are high in magnesium, iron, and healthy fats, which reduce fatigue and promote sustained energy.
Apples
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You know the old adage, an apple a day keeps the doctor away, well it also provides an easy way to amplify your energy. According to Cohnan, apples are packed with natural sugars and fibre, providing a steady energy release. The ambassador recommends pairing them with almond butter for a tasty nutrient boost.
Blueberries
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Next up we have a fruit that is small but mighty: blueberries. Blueberries are full of antioxidants and natural sugars, offering a quick energy boost and combating oxidative stress.
The berries offer a vibrant burst of flavour and are conveniently small and easy to snack on. Try adding them to your yogurt, oatmeal, or salad, or simply enjoying them plain.
Chia Seeds
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The final item on Cohnan's list of foods that support energy levels? Chia seeds. These tiny seeds are known as a superfood, and for good reason. Cohnan emphasizes that the seeds are rich in omega-3s, protein, and fibre, which provides a slow energy release and aids hydration, making them a fantastic addition to smoothies or yogurt.
Take Home Message
We all could use a little help with supporting our energy levels during the day, but many would prefer not to have to rely on caffeine—enter Cohnan's list.
Try some of these foods to enhance your energy and nutrition through your daily meals and snacks. You got this.
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Our articles should be used for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be taken as medical advice. If you're concerned, consult a health professional before taking dietary supplements or introducing any major changes to your diet.
A Rutgers University Honors graduate, Jamie grew up on the Jersey shore and double majored in Comparative Literature and Anthropology in college. Jamie is an experienced writer in the health and wellness, biotech, and eCommerce fields. She loves writing with a purpose and has even written for the Department of Justice.
Jamie became drawn to exercise during her time in university and began to notice the physical and mental benefits of moving your body daily. Today, Jamie enjoys Pilates, light weight training, and going on long walks in nature daily.
Jamie is also passionate about eating right and prioritizing gut health and immunity. She is always trying the next innovation in health and wellness. When she’s not writing articles, Jamie enjoys reading, playing guitar, and finding dogs to play with.