How food fuels your body

The energy in our bodies — that powers our brains and legs and hearts — comes from the food we eat.

How does food get converted, or changed, into energy?

According to Kaiser Permanente, our bodies mix up the foods we eat with fluids in our stomachs. As we digest, the carbohydrates in our food breakdown into a kind of sugar called glucose.

From there, the stomach and small intestine absorb the glucose and it enters the bloodstream, traveling all around the body. Our bodies can either immediately use that glucose for power or save it for later.

All foods give us energy. But some increase our energy levels more than others, according to Healthline.

Foods with complex carbs — like hummus, sweet potatoes and bananas — create a steady source of energy for your body.

Snacks with lots of carbohydrates, like yogurt and strawberries, can you give you a more immediate boost.

Even dark chocolate can give you more energy! The antioxidants increase blood flow, improving how well your brain and muscles work. Fat and protein can also be sources of energy.

Try these other foods, recommended by Healthline, to fuel your body: