Did you know your body is PROGRAMMED to feel sleepy between 1-3 p.m.?
Over the course of the day, your brain builds up a chemical (adenosine) that makes you want to sleep. ..
Plus, your circadian rhythm — which governs your sleep/wake cycle — has a natural “dip” about 7-9 hours after you wake up, making you feel sleepy.
That’s why you get that “afternoon slump” after lunch!
Still, there ARE ways to lessen your post-lunch energy dip, including:
Making sure you don’t eat too much — a big lunch can do a real number on your energy and make you feel sluggish and sleepy (fancy term: postprandial somnolence)
Avoiding heavy starchy carbs because they can make your blood sugar levels go up and down (and make you tired!)
Eating lean protein like chicken and fish to lighten the load on your digestive system
Drinking BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) throughout the day to naturally keep you alert and focused (without stimulants)
Enjoying some sunshine to signal to your brain that it’s still time to be awake and focused
A 10-20 minute nap after lunch if you can (but not too late in the day)
Engaging in regular movement + exercise to make sure you’re getting quality sleep at night
Getting 7-8 hours of sleep at night to support your energy levels all day long!
In other words, simply being more mindful of WHY your body does what it does and working WITH it instead of against it can go a long way.
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