Your diet has a direct effect on your energy level. To understand this you must first understand the difference between the energy stored in a calorie that your body needs to function and the amount of energy you want to have in daily life. When discussing diets energy can refer to either measurement.
Every calorie you eat is equal in that each one is able to give you the same amount of energy no matter what source it originally came from. This means that you can meet your caloric needs and the actual energy needs of your body by eating just chocolate or by eating just lettuce. However, the energy your body needs and the amount of energy you have are two different things. In order to have the energy to engage in your favorite activities you need foods that are not merely calorically dense but that are instead nutritionally dense.
Carbohydrates are the main source of energy in most diets. The best type of carbohydrates to eat in order to maintain long lasting energy are complex carbohydrates like vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. These carbohydrates can assist the body in regulating how fat is used for energy and can be used in place of protein. This allows protein to be used for building and maintain body tissue. Vitamins and minerals are also found in foods and contribute to the overall well being of the body and to an individuals" energy level.
A diet that focuses on vegetables and fruits is an excellent way to increase energy. Vegetables and fruits with deep rich colors should be focused on such as carrots, spinach, and berries. These items have a higher content of nutrients and will help your overall health which will in turn help increase your energy level. They are also an excellent way to fill up without giving your body more energy, or calories, than it needs to function.
By choosing a diet that supplies your body with all of the calories, or energy, it needs to function properly you will also be able to give yourself more energy.
