How do you recharge when a midafternoon slump hits? With coffee, a power drink, or a candy bar? Other better-for-you options may be more effective.
An afternoon slump may be part of your body rhythm, even if you get enough rest, eat smart, stay active, and manage stress. According to new research, high-carbohydrate meals may increase seratonin among some people and so contribute to drowsiness.
To keep your energy up midday:
- Eat lunch even when you’re under pressure. Erratic eating can be an energy robber.
- Power up. Include lunch foods that stick with you longer: a chef’s salad with meat, poultry, cheese, nuts, or tofu.
- Snack smart if you’re hungry. Keep nutrient-rich snacks handy in your work area: fruit, juice, whole-wheat pretzels, yogurt, trail mix.
- Skip martini lunches. Alcoholic drinks may make you drowsy.
- Get up. Maybe you need to move, not eat. Walk to a colleague’s desk to rev up your metabolism.
- Change your pace. Switch tasks to challenge your mind with something different. If your energy level is usually higher in the morning, plan more demanding work then. If your job allows, try a 15-minute nap.
• Dump stress. It zaps energy. (See April 15.)
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