Treating ourselves to a deliciously heavy meal for lunch might taste great but it’s far from ideal as far as our health goes. While we might feel physically satiated, we also end up feeling drowsy and unable to focus on work or lectures. This is because a heavy lunch diverts your brain energy towards digestion, directing the red blood cells to break down the food. The rest of your body slows down and goes to relaxation mode, which makes you feel sluggish. We show you how to avoid post lunch lethargy.
 

Opt for a balanced diet

Opt for a balanced diet

We should balance our diet well and avoid eating processed food, high levels of sugar, junk food and colas. To stabilize your sugar and insulin levels, pick natural foods that are high in fiber and protein such as whole grains, legumes and nuts. If you want to indulge your sweet tooth, pick fruits instead of candy or heavy Indian desserts.

 

Pick-me-up water

Pick-me-up water

One should consume water an hour after lunch to allow your food to be digested properly. In addition, ensure you have enough water during the day. Dehydration can make you drowsy.

 

Go Green

Go Green

Drink green tea which helps you lose weight, leads to improved brain function and kills bacteria, which improves your dental health and lowers your risk of infection. You will feel fresh, renewed and active!

 

Limit serving sizes

Limit serving sizes

Restrict your meal portions. Eat just what you need to for your body type. The less you eat,the easier it will be to digest, and the additional benefit is that it doesn’t make you feel drowsy as compared to heavy meals. You should never skip meals especially breakfast because you’ll be ravenous by lunch time and eat more than required.

 

It’s time to walk

It’s time to walk

You can deal with a gloomy afternoon before you even start feeling the blues with a brisk 10 to 15 minutes’ walk after your meal. Step out for a bit or move around and talk to colleagues. This small exercise of walking and talking will help you get energised and make you feel motivated to work.