Dr. Oz’s 24-Hour Energy Boost

Energy Boost #2: Your Midday Routine

We all experience the midday slump. Here are three secrets to keep your energy levels going strong, all day long.

Many of you may think that eating a heavy lunch saps you of energy, but the truth is that not eating enough can have an even worse impact. A new study found that eating too little at lunch led to emotional (feeling irritable and frustrated), physical (feeling tired and hungry), and cognitive (difficulty concentrating and poor decision making) symptoms.

Eating too little could even contribute to weight gain, as your body thinks food resources are low and begins storing what little you do eat as fat. You can reverse the negative effects of eating too little by adding a spelt salad to your midday meal. Spelt is a high-protein grain with a mellow, nutty flavor. Not only is spelt tasty and low in calories, but it’s rich in B vitamins, which are great for energy. It’s also a good source of fiber to keep your digestive tract moving. Mix the grain in with your choice of beans to double the protein and energy benefits of your lunch.

You may also be experiencing a midday slump due to hidden sources of caffeine. These days, caffeine can be found in gum, mints, pain relievers, ice cream, and even decaffeinated coffee! All this unintentional caffeine consumption builds up our tolerance and desensitizes us to caffeine’s helpful effects when we do mean to ingest it through a cup of tea or coffee. Be sure to check the labels on everything you use for unwanted caffeine, so your afternoon “cuppa” gives you the boost you need.