THE BEST QUICK ENERGY FOODS

All foods technically provide energy in the form of calories, but differences in nutrients and the way in which your body digests them make some foods better for supplying quick energy than others. While protein and fat content are important nutrients, carbohydrates are often considered to be the most crucial nutrients for energy. As MedlinePlus, a health resource authored by the National Institutes of Health and National Library of Medicine, explains, the structure of carbohydrates determines how they provide energy. Simple carbohydrates are quickly absorbed and provide energy right away, while complex carbohydrates provide gradual, sustained energy. For quick energy, you may want to choose foods with simple carbohydrates.

Apple With Peanut Butter

According to nutrition author Robert Reames, an apple with peanut butter is a snack that will provide quick energy receipes. This is because apples contain simple carbohydrates in the form of sugar, which are easy to digest and can increase your energy levels. Reames notes that the peanut butter provides essential fats, and suggests adding an egg white to the meal to provide protein. Reames claims that the carbohydrates, fat and protein together can help "turbo charge" a workout if consumed beforehand.

Yogurt

According to Fitness Magazine, yogurt is a good choice for providing a big energy boost. Yogurt contains carbohydrates, which will provide energy, as well as protein, which can make you feel full, explains "Fitness" magazine. Sprinkling cereal on top of your yogurt can help provide additional energy, as cereal is rich in carbohydrates. Many cereals also contain plenty of fiber, which can also help you feel full.

Nuts

According to the Nursing Online Education Database, a handful of nuts can provide you with a burst of energy. The database suggests almonds, cashews, peanuts or walnuts. While nuts tend to be low in carbohydrates, they contain protein and are high in fat. Fat contains 9 calories per gram, which is more than double the amount of energy that 1 gram of carbohydrates or protein provide--4 calories per gram. Because of the caloric density, you probably won't need too many nuts to provide an energy boost.

Turkey Sandwich

"Fitness" magazine suggests that half of a turkey sandwich is a good snack for boosting energy levels, and a whole sandwich may help you avoid a major energy slump. The bread provides carbohydrates for energy, while the turkey offers low-fat protein to help you feel full.

Nutrition Bar

Many nutrition and protein bars are specifically formulated to increase your energy levels. Often, these bars are high in sugar, although some use high levels of sugar alcohols instead. Nutrition bars tend to be rich in carbohydrates and moderately low in fat, while protein content varies. Bars referred to as "energy bars" usually have higher levels of carbohydrates, while "protein bars" have higher levels of protein, though they may still contain many carbohydrates.

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