Are you the type of person who needs to take a nap right after lunch? If so, know that this feeling is quite common and is caused by physiological processes related to digestion.
Feeling sleepy right after lunch is a normal human phenomenon, and is not related to your previous night’s sleep, but rather to your body’s digestion. This phenomenon is known as “postprandial drowsiness.”
In some cultures, an ideal time is set aside to rest and recharge before returning to work, however, nowadays, unfortunately, many routines do not allow for this break for the famous “siesta”.
According to several nutritionists, there are ways to avoid feeling tired after lunch, such as exercising, eating a healthy and moderate diet, and staying active.
In addition, nutritionist and person responsible for the Bio Nutri nutrition program at Bio Ritmo, Fúlvia Gomes, gives five more tips to recover energy after lunch and help reduce tiredness and drowsiness during the day.
Check out 5 tips to end tiredness after lunch
1. Avoid large portions of tryptophan-rich foods
Foods rich in tryptophan are more likely to cause drowsiness, so they should be avoided in large quantities at lunch. Examples: milk, meat, fish, cheese, cereals and nuts.
2. Beware of pasta
Foods considered sweet or rich in simple carbohydrates cause a sudden drop in blood sugar levels, consequently making the individual feel sleepy, so it is important to avoid eating these foods during lunch. Examples: non-wholemeal pasta and white bread.
3. Invest in a nutrient-rich breakfast
It’s no wonder they say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. A healthy and balanced breakfast keeps blood sugar levels stable throughout the day, thus preventing you from eating too much at lunch and feeling tired.
4. Drink water
Did you know that many people end up confusing hunger with thirst? For this reason, it is extremely important to drink water throughout the day to avoid this confusion. Always keep a bottle of water nearby and hydrate yourself regularly.
5. Move around
A walk in the fresh air is a good way to shake off unwanted sleepiness, and it also helps your brain get its oxygen supply. If you can’t go outside, open a window and take a few deep breaths. It may seem simple, but it can make all the difference.
