It’s 3:12 p.m. You have over three and a half more hours left in your shift, and that afternoon post-lunch fatigue is hitting you - hard. You don’t want to be nodding off as you make your rounds or fill out reports. How can you prevent this in the future? What could you have eaten for breakfast and lunch to prevent this?
Most people choose to go to coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up. That might work for a little bit, but as soon as the caffeine wears off you will crash again. Instead of getting a sugar rush or a caffeine boost, try to fill your diet with these energizing foods that will help keep you from being fatigued later in the day.
- Water. Dehydration can lead to a lack of energy, plus water is just plain good for you. Two-thirds of your body is made up of water, so it’s important to always be replenishing yourself. Plus, it can kick start your metabolism, which is always a good thing!
- Oatmeal and whole grains. Your body can process these foods quickly, which takes less energy, and there is no sugar crash. Also, whole grains are full of many vitamins and nutrients.
- Nuts and seeds. The magnesium helps fight muscle fatigue, and the unsaturated fats are healthy for your heart.
- Beans. High in fiber, low in fat, these little legumes can be added to your breakfast, lunch, dinner, or as a snack. The protein and high fiber will help balance your blood sugar and prevent drops, and the iron value will increase energy and oxygen distribution in your body.
- Lean proteins. Hamburgers and other more fatty meats take longer for your body to digest, therefore requiring more energy. Replace your red meat with leaner meats so you can utilize that energy during your work hours.
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