1. Get off the blood sugar rollercoaster
A blood sugar high always results in a blood sugar crash. This crash is the number one cause of the afternoon energy slump and can stimulate cravings for another sugary ‘quick fix’.
Protein is the real hero to keeping your blood sugar and energy levels stable throughout the day. Eat more lean meats, fish, eggs, yoghurt, nuts, seeds, tofu, tempeh, beans & pulses.
It’s also important to ditch the sugar-ladened white carbohydrates and opt for wholesome wholegrains such as whole grain bread or pasta, buckwheat, brown rice, wild rice, millet or quinoa.
2. Befriend green tea
Green tea contains a special substance called L-theanine, which has shown to stimulate a feeling of relaxed alertness and clarity. This is a great way to give you an afternoon energy boost without the worry of staying up all night.
3. Bring your own
The best way ensure you consume a nourishing, wholesome lunch is to bring your own. This will eliminate temptation for any processed or unhealthy fast food. A great way to start is to bring in portion of last night's dinner!
4. Drink, drink, drink
Did you know that staying hydrated can increase productivity at work by at least 14%?
If you struggle to stick to your two litres a day, have a go at infusing water with mint, lemon or berries for a tastier beverage.
5. De stress your way
To be effective at work, it’s important to learn to properly manage stress. Chronic stress may not only decrease productivity, but can elevate blood pressure, depress the immune system and lead to sleep problems.
Incorporate an instant daily stress reliever into your work life. Try a brisk walk outside, try deep breathing, stretching, meditation, or 10 minutes of ‘me time’.