Running on empty
Unfortunately, this strategy won't pep you up for long and will pack on pounds that will stick with you far longer than the short-lived energy boost.
One possible reason for that sugar craving is that you may not be getting enough fuel to keep you going during the day. If you’re controlling your calorie intake, your body may not be getting what it needs between lunch and dinner. This can lead to a slump in the afternoon and make you over-eat later on.
Another explanation for your mid-day drag could be dehydration. Make sure you drink at least eight glasses of water daily. But trying to rev up with caffeine will further dehydrate you, causing you to crash and burn later.
Avoid carb overload
It's important to eat well-balanced meals if you want to stay alert. Because carbohydrates digest in two hours, a simple bread roll or bagel in the morning won't keep you energised. But a well-balanced breakfast and lunch, consisting of 50% carbohydrates, 20% protein and 30% fat, should keep you in top form throughout the afternoon.
Try topping your morning bagel or roll with peanut butter or cream cheese. Choose a whole-wheat option to keep you feeling fuller longer. Choose a well-balanced lunch, for example, turkey on multi-grain bread and a side salad with low-fat cheese.
The right way to refuel
If you need a pick-me-up in the afternoon, try half a cup of nuts and an apple, an energy bar, soup or a fruit smoothie.
Mental fatigue is often mistaken for physical fatigue. So revive yourself with a quick walk, easy stretching exercises at your desk, or a trip up and down the stairs.
Realising that good food matters, Knorr is in an ideal position to help you avoid those unhealthy snacks and enjoy great tasting food.
Our soups, for example, can help you increase your daily consumption of vegetables, making you look and feel great.
