When you start to cook for yourself, you will learn how to pay close attention to every ingredient, and how those ingredients work together. But, cooking is about so much more than just putting a dish together. It’s about understanding how food works, so you can use it to nourish your body in the best possible ways. 

For example, 400 billion cups of coffee are sold around the world each year, and many people drink it for a burst of energy. Some people have it in the morning, and need another cup or two in the afternoon just to stay awake. 

But, did you know there are plenty of other natural foods that are high in energy that you can enjoy each day to keep you going? 

Let’s take a look at some of these power-packed snacks that can give you the boost you need to get through that afternoon slump. 

1. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a great way to get a lot of energy right at the start of your day. It’s easy to make every morning, which can help you to stay motivated in the kitchen. Plus, oatmeal has a ton of other health benefits. It can help to lower your cholesterol, and it’s a good source of fiber. 

It’s the complex carbohydrates in oatmeal that offer a slow release of energy throughout the day. Go for the real deal when you’re cooking oatmeal and make it ‘gourmet’ over a stovetop, rather than buying the instant varieties. You can add your favorite toppings and mix-ins for a real morning treat!

If you have a dairy allergy, you can add in some protein and extra dairy free energy through the use of powdered supplements that are easy to stir into your oats while cooking. 

2. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are another great source of complex carbohydrates that will give you lasting energy. But, they also contain a lot of Vitamin C, which is necessary for the transportation of fat cells in your body. Vitamin C helps those cells to turn into energy, so be sure to include this nutritious vegetable in salads, as a side, or even as a main dish with your favorite toppings as often as possible. 

3. Eggs

Most people think about eating eggs for breakfast, and it’s true that cooking up a few eggs is a great way to start your day with an energized punch. But, eggs are great any time of day, and they are incredibly versatile! 

If you’re feeling sluggish in the afternoon, try a hard boiled egg as a snack. Eggs provide the protein your body needs and can help to boost your energy levels quickly. 

As you can see, you don’t need to be a pro chef in order to work with ingredients that will give you an energy boost each day. So, instead of reaching for that extra cup of coffee, reach for a healthy, natural source of energy instead. If you’re just starting out in the world of cooking, these are great options that are easy to prepare and can keep you from feeling sluggish.