42 foods to eat to beat the afternoon slump
You’ve had lunch and you’re settling down for an afternoon of work. But your concentration withers, your eyes begin to feel heavy and your energy takes a sharp downward turn.
There are several causes for the afternoon slump; the surge of morning hormones have disappeared, perhaps boredom has set in, you are feeling ultra-stressed, or maybe your lunch has hindered your energy levels.
The is when many people reach for the coffee or energy drink to see them through until the end of the working day. Although both are stimulants, they can make you feel lethargic and tired after the initial energy surge they provide.
Employees also regularly skip lunch altogether, missing the opportunity to refuel your body. Percentage of employees who regularly miss lunch:
- 56% every day
- 55% once or twice a week
- 45% once or twice a month
However, it is possible to provide your body with sustained energy. Your body needs fuel to function optimally, and this means eating the right types of food.
Here are 42 foods that will provide you with sustained a long lasting energy, ensuring you get through each afternoon without the dreaded slump:
Remember always aim for a healthy balanced diet, plenty of exercise and find time to relax. If you have certain medical issues, you may be asked to avoid some of these foods by your Healthcare professional.
|
Whole wheat pasta |
Brown rice |
Wholegrain bread |
|
Quinoa |
Oats | Buckwheat |
| Wild rice | Beans |
Rye |
|
Spelt |
Chickpeas | Lentils |
| Peas | Spinach |
Curly kale |
|
Broccoli |
Cabbage | Mixed salad |
| Squash | Courgette |
Aubergine |
|
Apple |
Pear | Satsuma |
|
Strawberries |
Orange | Apricots |
|
Banana |
Cherries |
Carrots |
| Cucumber | Peppers |
Tomato |
| Sugar snap peas | Walnuts |
Almonds |
|
Pumpkin seeds |
Sunflower seeds | Lean meat |
| Fish | Low fat yoghurt |
Cooked egg (not fried) |
TIP
Try moving some of your lunchtime carbohydrates to breakfast instead, as often the afternoon slump is driven by a carb-loaded lunch.
Why not try some of our recipes to help you beat the afternoon slump:
https://www.thehealthyemployee.co.uk/recipe/chocolate-coconut-nut-oats
https://www.thehealthyemployee.co.uk/recipe/courgette-pizza
https://www.thehealthyemployee.co.uk/recipe/mezze-style-lamb-pepper-brochettes
