After a hard work during a morning, your energy may begin to decrease, so it is completely normal to feel tired , however the circadian rhythms that affect sleep patterns can generate the well-known midday depression, also known as drowsiness.
Sleep cues typically show up at night and in the evenings, which may explain why we want to nap after a meal. But there are factors that can trigger excessive sleepiness. Know what they are and the recommendations to avoid it.
Tips to avoid drowsiness after eating
1. Exercise routine
Assessing your ability to go to the gym in the middle of the day can not only increase productivity; It could also save you from drowsiness. You can add in some aerobic exercise before returning to your activity for the day.
2. Distance from computer screen
If you depend on a computer to carry out your workday, you should try to avoid visual fatigue . To do this, keep a safe distance from the computer screen or consider wearing a suitable pair of glasses.
3. Do stretches
Stretching can give you a quick boost of energy. If there is no stretching station in sight, try practical desk exercises to help keep your muscles relaxed.
4. Move around
A change of scenery can increase your productivity, so doing your work in a coffee shop, meeting room, or trying to find a space with a little natural light that can keep you more alert may be a good idea.
5. Some cold water
Splashing some cold water on your face to wake up will be a good option.
6. Drink green tea
With less caffeine than a cup of coffee, a cup of green tea can give you that afternoon more alert without making you stay up all night.
7. Talk to someone
Instead of emailing a coworker, it’s best to go to his space or cubicle and talk to him in person for a few minutes. This will allow you to stretch your legs while giving your eyes a break from staring at the screen.
8. Have a Snack
Snacking will help boost your energy levels. Try an ounce of cheese, a handful of nuts, or another high-protein snack to keep you on your toes.
9. Try to walk your meeting
Take that meeting on the street or outside and talk like you would in the office.
10. Take a break from your homework
Are you working on the same project for five hours? Try to cope with something else to keep yourself stimulated.
11. Take a nap
Sometimes the best remedy for fatigue is to simply close your eyes. Learn how to take a 10-20 minute nap, enough time to rest without waking up too fatigued.
12. Stay hydrated
Try to avoid dehydration and its drowsy side effects. To do this, drink at least 8 glasses of water a day .
13. Listen to some music
Listening to your favorite music can help you focus and feel more energetic.
14. Have a gum
Chewing gum can help you stay alert. You can buy those versions without sugar and versions with caffeine.
15. Don’t forget to have breakfast
Giving up the most important meal of the day is counter-prudential, remember to eat a healthy breakfast to maintain energy throughout the day.
16. Make sure your lunch is small
Opt for a smaller but satisfying meal; choose something with more protein, salads and less carbohydrates to avoid drowsiness .
17. Avoid sugar
Consuming some sweets can provide a sugar rush that will only lead to a crash later, making you more sleepy.
18. Take a few minutes to distract yourself
Take a few minutes to do something other than work like doing a crossword or a sudoku puzzle in order to give your body and mind a break.
19. Avoid alcohol consumption during the week
Avoiding drinking alcohol during the week, or keeping consumption to a minimum (one or two drinks) will help you avoid fatigue.
20. Get enough sleep
This may be a no-brainer, but getting enough sleep is vital to keeping you energized throughout the day. It is recommended to rest at least between 7 and 8 hours per day .
Reference
- Schwecherl, L. 22 Ways to Beat the Afternoon Slump. For Greatist [Revised December 2015].
