What Foods Energize the Body?

We eat food because it energizes our bodies with vital nutrients we need to survive. Some foods, however, do a better and healthier job of giving us the energy we need. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and beans are some of the healthiest choices we can make to energize our bodies.

Beans

• Kidney beans, northern beans, black beans, and black-eyed peas are some of the many types of beans.

  Beans are an excellent source of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. There is an economic advantage to beans, too, as they are very cheap and very abundant. Beans are a large source of carbohydrates which provide energy. The Idaho Bean Commission holds there are approximately 25 g of carbohydrates per 1/2 cup of dry beans, which is about 10 percent of the recommended daily intake of carbohydrates. The nutritional power of beans includes their ability to energize the body, aid in digestion, and help build muscle tissue with high amounts of protein.

Rice

• Brown rice contains rice bran which helps lower blood cholesterol.

  One cup of dry brown rice contains approximately 45 g of carbohydrates, which is approximately 20 percent of the recommended daily intake of carbohydrates. Rice is a complete food that is a good source of carbohydrates, protein, fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Furthermore, rice is the food of the world. More people consume rice than any other food.

Oatmeal

• Oatmeal is a filling, healthy breakfast.

  Oatmeal is a great source of carbohydrates to energize the body. Oatmeal increases metabolism and enhances athletic performance. Most people eat oatmeal for breakfast because of its ability to supply energy for the rest of the day without making you feel bloated. Oatmeal is high in fiber, which aids in digestion. Oatmeal is also known to lower blood cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Fruit

• Fruit can be stored at room temperature.

  Fruits are an excellent natural source of fiber and sugars which promote health and energy. Fruits have plenty of carbohydrates which helps supply the body with energy for extended periods of time. Various fruits have different nutritional properties, but most of them have plenty of vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium, and iron. A diet high in fruit helps regulate blood pressure and can reduce the risk of heart disease and some forms of cancer.