How To Avoid Hitting The Wall

[KayaTran]

Most of us have experienced that groggy, low-energy feeling that makes us crave a mid-afternoon catnap. Here are some tips on how you can fight it.

The Energy Sappers
Our eating habits are often the problem. Some common reasons our energy quotient may plummet during the day are:

skipping meals
eating too much sugar
consuming too few liquids
oversizing our meals
drinking too much caffeine

For peak performance, our bodies need to be fed and watered every few hours to maintain a steady supply of usable energy. Sweet and highly fefined foods provide a quick energy blast, often followed by a slump. Protein and fats require more effort to process, so overloading on these can cause sluggishness.

How To Boost Your Energy Quotient

Start each day with breakfast.
Eat smaller meals, more frequently.
Choose complex carbohydrates(whole grain, yogurt, fruit, nuts and seeds) instead of simple carbs(candy bars, white bread, pastries)
Include a little protein and fat in each meal or snack.
Consume plenty of liquids like water, low-fat milk, soup or fruit juice. Aim for a total of 9 cups of liquid a day, ideally non-caffeinated.