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Types of Food That Provide a Good Source of Fuel

The right types of foods supply your body with essential fuel to feed and nourish cells so you can perform at an optimal level. Eating right ensues you'll feel energized and ready to take on the day. It all starts with a healthy breakfast that includes items like fruit, eggs and turkey bacon, but healthy eating should continue throughout the day.

  1. Iron-Rich Foods

    • Iron-rich foods fuel the body by helping red blood cells produce hemoglobin, according to Best Health magazine. Hemoglobin transports oxygen to cells throughout the body, which helps sustain energy and other metabolic functions. Not eating enough iron can result in a low red blood cell count, causing you to feel tired and sluggish. Eat iron-rich foods such as red meat, buffalo, iron-enriched bread, dark green leafy vegetables, beans and nuts.

    Complex Carbohydrates

    • Best Health magazine notes that complex carbohydrates provide the body with fuel because foods containing them are digested slowly and they have high amounts of vitamins and minerals. Some of these foods also provide the body with iron, making their energizing potential even more powerful. Eat ample amounts of complex carbohydrates such as whole-grain breads, legumes, lentils, cereals and vegetables.

    Fruit Smoothies

    • Health magazine recommends eating fruit smoothies to fuel your body. All types of fruit contain vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates. Enjoy a peach and banana fruit smoothie topped with nuts before heading off to work. Try mixing up other fruits such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and orange slices. Add 1/2 cup of pure water to the blender along with one cup of your fruit of choice or mixed fruits and one banana. Add ice if you want a chilled effect.

    Dairy Products

    • Dairy products such as yogurt, milk and cheese and can also fuel the body. These foods contain ample amounts of minerals and vitamins along with some protein and fats. Buy organic or natural dairy foods that don't have added sweeteners such as high fructose corn syrup. Many name-brand yogurts contain this ingredient, but there are often many other healthier alternatives.

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