Written by Jenny Catton


 


It’s a familiar problem – you’ve been productive all morning long but then suddenly after lunch, you become overwhelmingly tired. All you really want is a nap but you’re at work so you have to struggle on feeling grumpy, achy, and tired. Well, here are some tips to help keep the mid-afternoon energy slump at bay:


 


Eat a healthy lunch
What you eat for lunch can really affect how you feel in the afternoon. Skip lunch and your energy levels will crash but eat too much and your digestive system will go into overdrive leaving you feeling exhausted. The best advice is to eat a healthy balanced lunch that combats hunger but doesn’t leave you feeling stuffed.


 


Drink plenty water
Dehydration is a common cause of tiredness so make sure you drink lots of water throughout the afternoon.


 


Choose healthy snacks
When you start feeling tired, it can be tempting to reach for sweet thingsfor an energy boost. Unfortunately, the energy you get from sugary snacks plays havoc with your blood sugar levels leaving you feeling even more exhausted. Choose healthy low-sugar snacks instead.


 


Get some fresh air
If you can get away from your desk for a walk at lunchtime, you’ll feel much more energised throughout the afternoon. If you do start feeling lethargic, even just a two minute breath of air can make all the difference.


 


Take a screen break
Remember to take a break from your screen regularly throughout the day. Getting up, walking around, or simply having a big stretch will all help.


 


For more information about keeping energised at work, visit: www.well-being-at-work.co.uk