How to overcome the “afternoon slump”


Aug 22, 2024

 by Kim Bouldin
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Did you know your body is PROGRAMMED to feel sleepy between 1-3 p.m.?

Yep, it’s true…

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 leaner protein like chicken and fish to lighten the load on your digestive system 

  • Getting 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 exercise to make sure you’re getting quality sleep at night

  • And 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. 

That’s the whole idea behind my approach to fitness, and it’s why my clients not only regain confidence in their body strength, but are also able to improve their relationship with food in just weeks

It’s also why they SUSTAIN those results long after joining any of our fitness programs.

Want to see what a personalized plan might look like for you? Set up a discovery call by clicking here

Committed to your success,

Kim Bouldin