
Sugar can also affect the levels of serotonin (a chemical that works as a neurotransmitter) in the brain, which can lead to drowsiness. This leads to a lack of energy or a feeling of fatigue.

Sugary sweets and desserts can immediately raise sugar and insulin levels, but they will then cause sudden drops. In fact, sugar can end up creating the opposite effect. including sugary sweets.Īlthough it may seem like a good, quick energy fix, you shouldn't rely on sugar to perk you up. Just watch the portion size if you choose nuts, since they are high in calories.

Some carbs that won't make your energy lag: peanuts, cashews, carrots, and whole grains like oats and barley. On the flip side, the lower the glycemic index, the less the food will impact your blood sugar and insulin levels. So to prevent that midday slump, steer clear of white bread, white bagels, pretzels and other high glycemic index carbs. Glycemic index is a measurement of how foods that contain carbohydrates will affect your blood sugar and insulin.įoods with a high glycemic index (70 or above on a scale of 1 to 100) can cause rapid fluctuations in your blood sugar and insulin. Not all carbohydrates are created equal - especially when it comes to your energy level. Some examples of high-protein snacks: fat-free plain or Greek yogurt, whole grain crackers with cheese, or hummus with vegetables. Choose snacks with at least 5 grams of protein. This way you can avoid energy slumps and spikes throughout the day.Ī high-protein snack can help restore energy by elevating your glucose level in a sustained manner.

It also helps regulate your insulin and blood sugar levels. Protein helps build muscle, which in turn helps burn fat. Keeping your diet rich in protein is always important. Instead, she offers these suggestions to fight the slump and boost your energy. The energy slump - it's a common midday occurrence that can leave you drowsy at your desk or yawning during afternoon errands.Īt those times, you might turn to coffee or an energy drink for a quick pick-me-up, but that's not what Shaila Pai-Verma, MD, an internist at Rush University Medical Center, recommends.
