It’s the middle of the afternoon and your energy level just plummeted. Your eyes are heavy and all you want to do is take a nap. If you feel that way it’s probably just the afternoon slump that just took the wind out of your sails. You don’t need to search for a pick-me-up at the bottom of a cup of coffee or a bag of chips. There are 9 foods that prevent an afternoon slump, and are also very easy to prepare and bring to work.
1 – Hard Boiled Eggs
These high protein snacks come with only about 80 calories each. The high level of protein and low carbohydrate makes them take longer to digest and keeps you feeling satiated for a longer period of time. They take about 10 minutes to make and you can cook a bunch at a time. Simply bring water to a boil and let the eggs sit for about 7 minutes while covered.
Hard boiled eggs are perfect to take on the go because the shell protects it until its time to snack. You can also season the eggs all sorts of ways so it doesn’t have to get boring. Paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon are all tasty toppings for your eggs.
2 – Nuts
There are a wide variety of nuts that are almost all very healthy energy producers. Studies have shown that a handfull of almonds can help control your blood sugar levels almost all day. The omega 3 fatty acid found in nuts, and more specifically walnuts, have shown mood and brian boosting properties.
3 – Citrus Fruit
Citrus fruits can provide immediate energy with the natural sugar that they contain. The fruits also contain fiber that makes them take longer to digest. Grapefruits have fat fighting properties that you can read about in, 5 Fat Burning Substances In Food That You Should Add To Your Diet. Lemons are another citrus fruit that have numerous health benefits besides providing you with a small energy boost. Find out what they are in 12 Unbelievable Health Advantages Of Lemons.
4 – Low Fat Dairy Products
The lactose in low fat dairy provides an instant energy boost. Dairy products are high in protein so it takes them longer to be broken down, which makes you feel full longer. Splitting your coffee in half with some low fat milk is a good way for you coffee drinkers to get some dairy into your system. Try adding some low fat cheese and yogurt to your breakfast. The probiotics in yogurt provide your intestines with helpful bacteria for a healthy digestive system.
5 – Avocado
The monounsaturated fats in a avocado slow down gastric emptying. This snack also includes some folate which is a B vitamin that provides energy and cell growth. It also helps regulate blood pressure. If you’re feeling hungry at work, half an avocado sprinkle some olive oil and pepper on it. Keeping the pit in the other half will help it stay fresh for later.
6 – Blueberries
These fruits are among the highest in antioxidant content. Antioxidants fight free radicals that go around your body damaging cells. At only 80 calories per cup with no fat at all they are a very healthy choice. Studies have been done on mice and elderly people, and both support the fact that blueberries improve cognitive performance and memory.
7 – Dark Chocolate
This sweet delicacy provides an antioxidant rich snack similar to blueberries. It also positively affects hormones that promote stress relief and a calm mood. A study that has been recently published even stated that dark chocolate may help lower blood pressure. Make sure you are not over doing the serving size. Only a couple pieces will do the trick.
8 – Water
Water is one of the most important substances needed for life, not just energy. Water is responsible for transporting nutrients throughout the body, and also excreting waste. The metabolism can’t efficiently provide energy when your body is dehydrated. The brain is effected and doesn’t function efficiently without sufficient water. If you want to know many other ways that water can benefit your health take a look at 10 Reasons Why Water Is The Ultimate Health Booster
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9 – Whole Grain Cereal
Whole grains release glucose into the blood gradually providing a longer lasting energy source. Refined grains like white bread, pasta, and simple sugar like candy creates a spike in blood sugar. Insulin has to rush in to level it back out again creating a sudden crash. Whole grain cereals are always a better option for longer lasting energy boosts. You can even add your low fat milk to this snack, from tip #4.
The afternoon energy crash may be due to inadequate sleep, stress from work, or missing breakfast. Whatever the reason is, you don’t automatically have to rush to the coffee pot or eat junk food to keep you awake. Try these 9 foods that prevent an afternoon slump. They are all easy to take to work or anywhere else on the go. Leave a comment below and let us know how they work for you. You can also contact me with questions about any other advice that you need on boosting your energy level.
About Adam Pegg
