RIA BHAGWAT | RealSimple.com
NUTRITION
By the time late afternoon rolls around, so does that lethargic and unproductive sensation you've worked all day to avoid. The feeling is more commonly known as a "midday slump," or the dip in energy we experience halfway through the day.
According to registered dietitian nutritionist Samantha Coogan, it's not just the time of day that affects our energy levels -- it's also our tendency to lean in to diet culture.
"If you feel hungry shortly after eating something, it's probably because you didn't eat enough," Coogan explains. During the workweek, we can also get lost in our projects and forget to eat.
"Sometimes we need a tangible reminder to fuel and feed ourselves," she says, encouraging people to set a personal boundary that "for every 45 minutes you work, take a 15-minute snack and/or hydration break." Here are a few ideas.
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Apples, pears, bananas
Fruits like apples, pears and bananas have been proven to help you feel full longer, especially if you're in a rush and need something that's easy on the go.
String cheese
It's not just fun to pull and eat, it's also filled with vitamins and minerals that can help boost energy levels. While you're finishing up that final draft or getting ready for a night shift, snack on some string cheese and pair it with another one of these highlighted foods.
Peanut butter
Delicious, creamy and super filling -- peanut butter is a great way to spice up your midday snack. It's packed with protein and healthy fats that you can slather on toast, crackers or your favorite fruit.
Another quick and easy snacking option includes toasting some whole-grain bread and coating it with fresh avocado. It'll satisfy your appetite and keep you full for several hours.
Yogurt with fruits and granola
Dress up a bowl of yogurt with some fruit and granola (or dried oats, depending on your preference). For example, plain vanilla yogurt paired with cut-up strawberries, blueberries and oats makes for the perfect midday snack.
Citrus
Citrus fruits -- like oranges, lemons and grapefruits -- are rich in water and vitamin C, both of which will fill your energy tank throughout the day. You can even incorporate these fruits into your favorite salad or eat them on their own.
Protein shake
Protein shakes aren't technically food, but they're packed with enough protein and other nutrients to curb your appetite and leave you feeling ready for a workout. You can also toss a few of your favorite fruits into the mix.
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