DISMISSING POST-LUNCH DROWSINESS AT WORK

Things to keep in mind to avoid feeling sleepy and lethargic after lunch at work

Opt for green tea or coconut water to boost your metabolism after lunch TRIPTI TANDON, NUTRITIONIST

The hardest task at the office is not working but keeping the drowsiness away once you’ve had your lunch. Most of us find ourselves yawning, craving for a cozy quick afternoon nap after lunch but can’t do anything about it because we are at work. Therefore, it’s imperative that we stay active at work, especially after lunch. Here’s how to keep drowsiness at bay at work.

LATE NIGHT SLEEP

One usually tends to feel sleepy when they don’t get proper sleep at night. If you want to avoid post-lunch drowsiness, make sure you get minimum of 8 hours of sleep. If you’ve taken proper rest, you’ll have enough energy to last through out the day.

LIMIT SUGAR AND FAT

If you want to avoid an energy crash and an onset of sleep post lunch at work, limit your consumption of sugar and fat. Sugar gives you an instant energy rush, but it also wears off and leaves you tired. Opt for fresh fruits, if you have sugar cravings.

OPT OF IRON

Opt for foods that are rich in iron, protein and carbohydrates (carbs). Iron allows the body to produce haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in our body and increases energy levels. Carbs provides a healthy source of glucose to increase energy.

AVOID OVEREATING

It’s preferable to have medium to small portion of meals at regular intervals. Opting for a heavy meal for lunch will leave you tired and sleepy as it takes time to digest. Having meals in portions helps to control sugar levels too.

WALK IT OFF

After 20-25 minutes of having your lunch, go for a small walk. Climb the stairs in the office. You can also do breathing exercises to boost metabolism. This is will help to digest the meals faster and keep you active post-lunch. If you are dehydrated, you are bound to feel drowsy throughout the entire day. Body requires water to maintain energy levels, therefore drink water at regular intervals at work. (With inputs from Tripti Tandon and Kanchan Patwardhan, nutritionist)

Opt for a filling breakfast and a light lunch to avoid sleepiness. Also include fibre and proteins in your diet for staying active KANCHAN PATWARDHAN, NUTRITIONIST

PHOTO: ISTOCK