14 Natural Snack Foods That Will Boost Your Energy

Next time you are in need of an energy boost, don't reach for an unhealthy energy drink or another cup of coffee. Try snacking on these healthy treats that will give you a natural energy boost without the crash later on.

Almonds

Almonds can pack quite a punch which makes them an excellent choice for energy on the go. A 1/3 cup serving of almonds provides about 280 calories coming from fats, protein and carbohydrates. This high calorie, healthy nut is the perfect snack food to have on hand for those busy days when a little extra energy is in high demand.

Dark Chocolate

Good news chocolate lovers! Dark chocolate is a great, natural energy booster and has loads of health benefits. There’s a natural stimulant called theobromine (similar to caffeine) in dark chocolate making it the perfect mid-day pick-me-up.

Banana

For those days when you’re hitting the gym, grab a banana for a much needed energy boost to get the most out of your workout. Bananas have a much lower water content than other fruits leaving more room for natural sugars and calories. They’re also high in pectin, making them easy on your gastrointestinal tract which is why it’s one of the favored snacks of many athletes.

Coconut

The health benefits of coconut are seemingly endless and as far as energy goes, this natural food has got you covered. Coconut is high in fat but these fats are readily absorbed are used as preferential energy source by the body. Add a little coconut to your diet for a quick, healthy boost of energy.

Kale

Kale is constantly touted as a superfood but that's because it really does bring a lot to the table. It's loaded with necessary nutrients and is very calcium rich. Having enough energy to get through a busy day means you'll need to keep your body nourished and kale will do just that.

Edamame

Edamame beans are a no-brainer when it comes to an energy-packed snack. Not only are they delicious and easy, but they're full of protein. For sustained energy levels, it's a good idea to pick a snack like edamame that's well rounded with proteins, fats and sugars.

Guarana

Guarana is an ingredient you'll often find listed on the side of energy drink cans because it does have energy boosting effects. This ingredient comes from a berry found in the Amazon and is associated with numerous health benefits including sharpening your memory. As long as you don't consume too much guarana, which can make you jittery that same way too much coffee will, the guarana berry makes for a great, energy boosting snack.

Pumpkin Seeds

For a quick, tasty snack that will keep you moving, try pumpkin seeds. They're more than just a fall tradition. They're high in vitamins, protein, fats, and carbs so when you feel like you're starting to slow down, a handful is all you need to get back on track!

Goji Berry

When you're looking for an energy boost, finding a snack that's nutrient dense is the key to success. You'll be hard-pressed to find something more nutrient dense than the Goji berry. Incorporate a glass of Goji berry juice into your daily routine for sustained energy.

Asparagus

The B vitamins are important to keeping your body energized. If you love asparagus, you're in luck! Asparagus is chock-full of B vitamins so add it to your grocery list.

Sauerkraut

Another tasty option for keeping energy levels up is sauerkraut. Made of shredded and fermented cabbage, this cruciferous food delivers tons of vitamins, including vitamin K. It doesn't take much so this is a great option if you're looking a small snack.

Blueberries

Blueberries are much more than just a delicious addition to a smoothie. They will provide an energy boost and have been known to help increase focus. Add them your breakfast to stay focused and energized throughout the day.

Peaches

Peaches are relatively low in calories and fat but they play an integral part in maintaining good energy levels. They are packed with iron so if you're feeling sluggish from a lack of iron, peaches could be the answer. Your immune system will also thank you for all the vitamin C you'll be getting as well.

Oranges

We tend to associate foods high in sugar with sugar rushes and the subsequent sugar crashes. Don't be fooled by fruits like oranges that are high in natural sugars. They provide a much more stable stream of energy along with loads of the much-needed vitamin C making them an excellent, energy boosting choice.