Best Foods to Eat on Moving Day for Extra Energy

You'll need all of the extra energy you can get on moving day. So what are the best foods to eat to give you that energy boost AND keep it going?

Basically, you'll want a balance between protein and carbohydrates. Carbs give you energy, but the protein helps your body conserve that energy, releasing it more slowly over time so that you don't get a boost and then crash.

While energy bars sound like a good idea, some may not give you the lasting energy you need. Energy bars with a balanced blend of protein and carbs are what you need, but look for ones that are low in calories— usually between 100-150— and those that are low in fat. If the bar is really high in only one area (protein or carbs), the energy won't last, so look for a balance between the two.

Obviously when you're packing and moving you aren't going to have a lot of groceries in the fridge, but keep in mind some things that are non-perishable that you can travel with too. Whole wheat bread and peanut butter are great power-packed foods you can keep at home while you're still packing up, and keep in the car on moving day.  Just think of the money you'll save by not eating out and purchasing "snacks" on your gas station stops.

Speaking of gas station stops…instead of the short-lived energy you'll get from candy bars, snack cakes and chips; think whole grain crackers, peanut butter or cheese.  What about nuts? They're high in both protein and Omega-3s, which also fight fatigue— much needed after a day of moving! If you have room in your vehicle for an ice chest, pack yogurt. It's great for a quick energy boost.  Keep in mind that small meals or snacks every few hours give you energy more consistently than eating a large meal.  And large meals may make you sleepy (think Thanksgiving)…obviously driving long-distances and being sleepy aren't a good mix.

Another great fatigue fighter is Vitamin C.  So pack citrus fruits like oranges or tangerines— they're easy to travel with too. If you do stop for a longer break at a restaurant, foods high in vitamin C also include broccoli, peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, leafy greens, and fruits like grapefruit, strawberries, and melons. But again, keep in mind that a balance between protein and carbs is what you really need. Other restaurant foods you'll want to search for high in protein are seafood, red meat, and poultry.

You may have the idea that if you avoid drinking too much liquid, you won't have to stop as much, BUT, keeping yourself hydrated with water is essential for conserving energy— even if that means more bathroom breaks. Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks. They may give you a boost at first, but it won't last. And let's face it – they're not healthy.  Eating energy-packed foods will make things much easier at the destination when the real work of unpacking and settling in starts.