It’s 2.30 pm. 30 minutes since you came back to work after a hearty meal. 5 minutes since sleep crept its way into your eyes. You wish your manager was nice enough to let you catch a catnap. But what are the odds?
Instead of struggling so hard to stay awake, don’t you think it’s better to eat the right kind of food that will boost your energy and in turn your productivity for the rest of the day?
But first up, what exactly causes that post-lunch slump?
Science tells us that our body uses up a significant amount of energy to digest the food we eat. This is probably why we feel tired and even slightly weak. Another reason is due to a spike in insulin from the pancreas which triggers the release of the feel-good hormone serotonin – this hormone is also responsible for making us feel sleepy.
Now that the mystery has been solved, it’s time for me to introduce you to 5 healthy meals that will guarantee energy at work.
1. Bento
Bentos make an amazing lunch idea mainly due to their size. We naturally feel sluggish when we overeat, so these petite boxes are a great way to ensure we stick to the recommended portions. Pack more nutritious foods and try to cut out on anything greasy or too salty. Protein-rich foods like salmon, eggs, brown rice, lentils and beans not only provide long-lasting energy – they are also incredibly easy to prepare.
2. Thai-Style Chicken and Quinoa Bowl
Pic source: How Sweet Eats
Both chicken and quinoa are loaded with protein, so you know you’re going to be awake for a long time and even have the energy for an evening jog after work. Plus, who doesn’t love some good Thai food?
P.S. You can simply switch to brown rice if quinoa isn’t your thing.
3. Khichdi
Pic source: Vaya
Khichdi is an Indian dish that is made from rice and lentils but there are also alternatives that skip rice completely. There is evidence that people ate it as early as 2,000 years ago. Ayurveda considers khichdi as a complete food as it’s packed with all the essential nutrients we need.
Bonus: Khichdi is a detox food too!
4. Tofu Fried Rice
Pic source: Thinly Spread
Super-easy and healthy. Need I say more?
5. Chicken and Spinach Pasta
Don’t be so quick to dismiss pasta as a villain. The truth is, pasta contains complex carbohydrates which don’t break down so easily unlike foods with refined sugar. These complex carbs will keep you satiated for a longer time without causing sudden cravings. When you combine protein-rich meat and green leafy vegetables like spinach or kale with pasta, the result is amazing. Give it a try if you don’t believe me.
