What Vitamins Do I Need for Energy?

Nutritious food is the best source of the vitamins and minerals we need to power our bodies, but when we are not getting enough of what we need, it is time to look to supplements. Vitamins themselves are not a direct energy source, but they help to convert the foods we eat into energy for our body to use to grow and repair itself. When you feel fatigued or less energetic than usual, certain vitamins can help boost your body's resources.

B Vitamins

• Made up of eight different vitamins, the group of B vitamins are the first place to turn when you want to boost your energy levels. Each B vitamin is responsible for a part of the energy conversion process your body undergoes when converting protein and fat into usable fuel. B12 in particular is essential for energy. To get more B vitamins into your diet, eat whole grains, seafood, poultry, lean meats, eggs, dairy and legumes. Leafy green vegetables are also an excellent source of B vitamins.

Vitamin E

• Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which means that it protects your body from damage caused by elements roaming freely throughout your body. If you are particularly active or engage in strenuous activities, vitamin E helps to repair your muscles and ensure that you are using energy effectively. You can take vitamin E supplements, or you can eat certain types of foods to increase the amount of vitamin E in your diet. Whole grains, nuts, seeds, egg yolks and leafy green vegetables are all sources of additional vitamin E.

Vitamin A

• Vitamin A is best known for helping to protect your vision, but it is also used by your body to repair cells and bones. When your body is functioning well on a cellular level, it has to expend less energy on keeping your systems running and you feel more energized as a result. To get more vitamin A into your diet, eat cantaloupe, carrots, sweet potatoes, liver and dark leafy green vegetables like spinach.

Vitamin D

• Vitamin D is found in fish, eggs, liver and milk. This is a unique vitamin, because the easiest way to boost your vitamin D intake is to spend just a few minutes a day in direct sunlight. Make sure you use sunblock to protect your skin, but taking a short walk each day can help your body take in enough vitamin D to boost your energy. Vitamin D is vital for bone and muscle strength, both of which help you to build and maintain energy levels.