Feeling Sleepy At Workplace? 4 Ways To Avoid Postprandial Sleepiness

The best naps we have ever taken are after filling our tummies with delicious food. You eat your favourite dish and soon after doze off into a deep sleep. It is the best way to pamper yourself over a weekend.

However, when you feel sleepy after eating in the office, it is one of the toughest things to struggle with. You have deadlines to meet and ample things to do after lunch, but sleep makes it hard to focus.

Why Do We Feel Sleepy After Eating

Feeling sleepy after eating is defined as postprandial sleepiness in medical terms. According to Medical News Today, one might experience sleepiness, laziness, or tiredness after eating depending on what and how much one had for a meal.

Reports suggest if you have carbohydrate and protein-rich food items for a meal, you might feel more sleepy than if you eat anything else. There are researches that suggest sleepiness after eating might be because the body releases serotonin, a hormone responsible for regulating sleep cycles and moods.

Therefore, experts advise having a balanced meal that has a fair combination of carbohydrates and proteins (protein-rich snacks).

How To Avoid Sleepiness After Eating

Eat In Small Portions

Scientists advise eating in small portions if you have to work, drive or focus on something after eating. Having a large meal can cause a dip in energy levels, making a person feel lethargic and sleepy.

If you face this issue almost every day, you must start recording what you had for meals and start making a few mindful choices. However, the quantity of food one eats varies from person to person, but you can definitely avoid filling your plates to the brim.

Stay In Bright Light

A report by the sleep foundation suggests people must seek out bright light. At home, you might have an option of a power nap. However, for students and people at work, bright light can help to ward off sleep. The exposure helps one to focus and stay alert. Thus, it helps to beat postprandial sleepiness.

Don't Miss: Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS): Causes, Symptoms & Prevention

Don’t Forget Hydration

After you have a meal, do not forget to drink water. If you drink less water throughout the day, it contributes to fatigue and sleepiness. Hence, drinking water at regular intervals can help you stay alert and focused on work.

Don't Miss: Tips To Avoid Waking Up Tired

Take A Walk

Any physical activity, no matter how small, can help your mind stay alert and combat lethargy and sleepiness. If you are in the office and can absolutely not fight postprandial sleepiness, take a walk or just head to the station of your favourite co-worker and indulge in a small conversation.

Also Watch