If you have noticed that you get extremely tired around 2-3pm every day, you are probably dealing with an afternoon slump. This tends to be when people grab another cup of coffee or want something sweet to peak their energy levels. It is completely normal, but can also be reduced with just a few lifestyle changes.
Lack of Physical Activity
One possible reason, for feeling a drop in energy during the afternoon is a lack of activity throughout the day. Many people mistakenly assume that being physically active will make them more tired. Its actually often the opposite.
If you have a desk job it can be beneficial to incorporate movement into your day, in the early afternoon. Consider taking a walk during your lunch break or finding time for a yoga session. For those who work from home scheduling a workout in the afternoon could be an option.
High Carbs for Breakfast or Lunch
Are you someone who tends to consume an amount of sugar and simple carbohydrates during breakfast and lunch? If thats the case it could potentially be the reason, behind your afternoon fatigue.
Sugar and carbs provide a boost of energy making you feel energized to tackle the day. However the downside is that it often leads to a crash, in energy levels when your blood sugar drops dramatically.
If you believe this might be happening to you consider incorporating high protein meals in the day and saving your carb intake for evening meals.
Dehydration
Sometimes we tend to find it easier to stay hydrated, by drinking water in the morning. Then slack off in the afternoon. However this habit can potentially lead to dehydration, which might make us feel tired and lacking energy later, in the day.
To avoid this it’s an idea to set reminders for ourselves and make sure we consistently drink water throughout the day not just during the morning. Remember to have water with your lunch and keep a bottle on your desk as a cue.
Your Circadian Rhythm
Your circadian rhythm is your sleep and wake schedule, which naturally adjusts based on when you tend to sleep and be awake. If it is off recently from lack of sleep, it can also affect when you get more tired during the day.
The more consistent you are with your sleep and wake times, the less sluggishness you will experience in the afternoon.
