5 Lunch and Snack hacks to counter the Afternoon Slump

For many people, day starts full of energy but as the day passes, post-lunch people feel fatigued, sleep, tiredness, and have a craving for caffeine. All this collectively falls under ‘afternoon slump’.

Food Choices and timings, Sleep Quality and timings, hydration, and physical activities all can lead to afternoon slumps. A holistic approach towards the lifestyle factors causing Afternoon Slump should be taken. Having healthy lunch and snacks can help in overcoming the afternoon slump.

Here are 5 lunch and snack hacks to counter the Afternoon Slumps

• Wholesome Lunch – Having a wholesome lunch that includes fiber from vegetables, protein from pulses, eggs, and complex carbohydrates from whole cereals helps in releasing slow energy. One feels active, light, and full of energy. Portion control is also necessary.
• Avoid High GI foods – High Glycaemic Index foods and sugary foods tend to raise the blood glucose levels too fast and then energy drops after some time. High GI foods tend to give afternoon slumps. One should avoid refined carbohydrates, low protein, packaged and processed foods which lead to increased fluctuation in blood sugar levels quite a lot.
• Natural Sugars – Satisfy afternoon slum sugar craving with natural sugars like fruits and dried fruits. They do not only contain sugar but the fiber in them also helps in feeling full and releasing slow energy. Fruits are also rich in vitamins and minerals whereas refined sugar is 0 nutrient calorie-rich food. Refined sugar gives instant energy which doesn’t stay for long.
• Snack on nuts – Afternoon Slump can be satisfied by including nuts like almonds, and pistachios. They not only help in releasing energy but also helps in enhancing mental focus, provide satiety, and are a healthy snacking option instead of munching on unhealthy snacks. Having fruit with nut butter is also one of the healthy options for snacking.
• Include Healthy Drink – Instead of coffee or tea have almond milk or soy milk. Both the milk are low in calories and rich in protein. Having direct unsweetened milk or in the form of smoothies by adding fruit can be enjoyed. This helps in providing energy, extra vitamins, and minerals as well as helps in satiating hunger.

Over To You
Choosing the right food option is essential to stay active throughout the day. Ensure you include the above option to counter the afternoon slump.