Did you know your body is supposed to feel sleepy between 1-3 p.m.?
It’s true. Throughout the day, your brain builds up adenosine (a chemical that makes you feel sleepy). Your circadian rhythm also comes into play because it manages your sleep/wake cycles. This cycle has a natural “dip” about 7-9 hours after you wake up, making you feel sleepy in that window.
That’s why you get that “afternoon slump” after lunch! Still, there ARE ways to improve your energy dips and dives, including:
● Not eating more than necessary — a large mid-day meal can really zap your energy and make you sluggish and sleepy (aka: postprandial somnolence)
● Avoiding heavy starchy carbs — your blood sugar levels will go up and down more drastically (and make you tired!)
● Eating more leaner protein like chicken and fish to lighten the load on your digestive system
● Getting some sunshine to signal to your brain that it’s still time to be awake and focused and not yet time to sleep
● Grabbing a 10-20 minute nap after lunch if you can (but not too late in the day)
● Exercising regularly to make sure you’re ready for quality sleep at night
● And getting 7-8 hours of sleep at night to support your energy levels all day long!
In many ways, simply being more mindful of WHY your body does what it does and working WITH it instead of against it can make a big difference.
REFERENCE:
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