Foods That Wake You Up Cover Photo

Top 5 Energizing Foods That Wake You Up Naturally

Written by: Kat Austin

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Time to read 6 min

In a world dominated by caffeine for energy, it's easy to forget the natural foods that can wake you up without the crash. Luckily, nature provides a variety of energizing foods that wake you up naturally.


Here are five energizing options to incorporate into your morning routine:

1. Oats

Starting your day with a bowl of oatmeal can provide a steady release of energy that keeps you fueled throughout the morning. Oats are rich in complex carbohydrates, which are digested slowly, preventing spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels.


Additionally, they contain B vitamins, which are essential for converting food into energy. Add some fruit and nuts to your oatmeal for an extra nutrient boost.

2. Bananas

Bananas are nature's perfect portable snack, packed with vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars. They're particularly rich in potassium, a mineral that plays a key role in muscle function and energy metabolism.


The carbohydrates in bananas provide a quick source of energy, while the fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels, preventing energy crashes. Enjoy a banana on its own or blend it into a smoothie for a refreshing morning pick-me-up.

3. Eggs

Eggs are a versatile and nutritious breakfast option that can help you stay alert and focused throughout the day. They're a rich source of high-quality protein, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels and promotes satiety.


Eggs also contain choline, a nutrient that supports brain health and cognitive function. Whether you like them scrambled, boiled, or poached, adding eggs to your morning routine can provide a lasting energy boost.

4. Mushrooms

Mushrooms might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of energizing foods, but they're a surprising source of vitality. Many mushrooms top the list of nootropic food sources, meaning they are an unmatched source of fuel for your brain.


Mushrooms are low in calories and rich in nutrients like vitamin D, selenium, and B vitamins, all of which play a role in energy metabolism and immune function. They also contain antioxidants that help combat inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Medicinal mushrooms like Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps are celebrated for their energy and focus-enhancing benefits.


Incorporate medicinal mushrooms into your morning omelet or sauté them as a savory side dish for a nutritious and energizing start to your day. For a more direct approach to reaping the benefits of medicinal mushrooms, try a mushroom extract product, like Lucid Mushroom + Nootropic Super Coffee.




Lucid beverages contain a blend of brain-boosting nootropics + powerful mushrooms designed to unlock your brain's full potential so you can zone in on what's important. 


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5. Spinach

Leafy greens like spinach are nutritional powerhouses that can help kickstart your day on the right foot. Spinach is loaded with vitamins and minerals, including iron and magnesium, which are essential for energy production and muscle function. 


It's also high in antioxidants, which help combat inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Add a handful of spinach to your morning smoothie or omelet for an extra dose of vitality.

How to Alter Your Diet to Increase Energy


  • Eat Regularly: Maintaining regular meal times can help stabilize your blood sugar levels and prevent energy crashes. Aim to eat breakfast within an hour of waking up, and try to have smaller, balanced meals or snacks every three to four hours throughout the day.

  • Balance Macronutrients: Include a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats in each meal to provide sustained energy. Carbohydrates provide quick energy, while protein and fats help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

  • Reduce Caffeine: While caffeine can provide a temporary energy boost, overconsumption can lead to jitteriness, anxiety, and ultimately, lower energy levels. Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages and consider switching to decaffeinated options or herbal teas for a more sustainable energy boost.

  • Choose Whole Foods: Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which support overall health and energy levels.

  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased alertness, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily, and consider hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables.

  • Limit Refined Sugars and Processed Foods: While sugary snacks and processed foods might provide a quick energy boost, they often lead to energy crashes later on. Opt for whole, minimally processed foods whenever possible to maintain steady energy levels.


Other Ways to Naturally Improve Energy

While diet plays a significant role in energy levels, several other lifestyle factors can also influence how alert and energized you feel throughout the day. Here are some additional strategies to boost your energy levels naturally:


  • Get Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining energy levels and overall vitality. Exercise helps increase blood flow, oxygen delivery, and endorphin release, all of which contribute to improved energy and mood. 

    Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

  • Prioritize Sleep: Quality sleep is crucial for restoring energy levels and promoting overall health. Aim for seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep each night, and establish a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. 

    Create a relaxing bedtime routine, minimize screen time before bed, and ensure your sleep environment is comfortable and conducive to rest. For even more sleep support, consider nootropics for sleep, like Cordyceps or Lion's Mane.

  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can drain your energy reserves and lead to fatigue. Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or progressive muscle relaxation to help calm your mind and body. 

    Prioritize self-care activities that bring you joy and relaxation, and consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor if stress becomes overwhelming.

  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can contribute to feelings of fatigue and lethargy. Make sure you're drinking enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated and maintain optimal energy levels. 


    Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily, and consider consuming hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables.

  • Take Breaks and Rest: It's essential to listen to your body and take breaks when needed, especially during periods of intense mental or physical activity. 

    Incorporate short breaks into your daily routine to rest and recharge, whether it's a quick walk outside, a few minutes of stretching, or a brief meditation session. Allow yourself time to rest and recuperate to prevent burnout and maintain sustainable energy levels.

  • Limit Alcohol and Nicotine: Alcohol and nicotine can interfere with sleep quality and disrupt your body's natural energy rhythms. Limit your intake of alcohol and avoid nicotine products, especially close to bedtime, to ensure better rest and higher energy levels during the day.


By incorporating these lifestyle strategies alongside a balanced diet rich in energizing foods, you can naturally improve your energy levels and enhance your overall well-being. Experiment with different approaches to find what works best for you, and prioritize self-care habits that support sustained vitality and resilience.



FAQs

What are 5 high energy foods?

  • Oats

  • Bananas

  • Eggs

  • Mushrooms

  • Spinach

What food gives you energy fastest?

Foods rich in simple carbohydrates, such as fruits like bananas or dates, provide a quick source of energy due to their easily digestible sugars.

How do you fix fatigue fast?

To combat fatigue quickly, consider drinking a glass of water to ensure hydration, eating a small snack containing protein and carbohydrates, taking a short walk to increase blood flow and oxygen levels, or practicing deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and increase alertness.

Which foods to avoid for sustained energy?

Steer clear of refined sugars, processed carbs, and excessive caffeine. Opt for whole, nutrient-dense foods instead.

Is it better to eat small, frequent meals or larger meals for energy?

Both can work, depending on your preferences. Some prefer smaller, frequent meals to maintain energy levels, while others find larger meals satisfying. Experiment to see what suits you best.





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Kat Austin

Kat is a Senior Writer at Lucid with over a decade of experience crafting engaging health and lifestyle content. When she's not sharing health hacks, you can find her foraging nearby her own backyard or backpacking somewhere bobcats roam.