Does this sound familiar? It’s 3 p.m. Lunch seems like forever ago and your stomach starts to rumble and grumble. You start to lose focus and dinner seems so far away.
Well, you’re not alone – this afternoon dilemma happens to me too. It can be caused by a number of factors and can often be solved by simply having a glass of water.
If you try this and you still feel hungry, then yes, you could probably use a little snack. However, when you reach for that snack, you want to make sure you’re making a choice that will sustain your energy. The best options combine nutrient-rich fruits or veggies that give quick energy and hydration combined with a lean protein or fat for staying power. Do your best to avoid sugary or starchy foods that give you a quick boost, but cause a crash quickly after.
To give you a better idea of what I mean, I’ve listed below some of the best and worst things to reach for if you’re craving a snack.
Avoid these …
- Granola bars
- Yogurt with added sugars
- Diet drinks
- Vending machine options (mostly packed with added sugars)
All of these include ingredients that will actually make you more tired over time. They’re tricky because whilst they give you a boost of energy straight away, they also cause you to crash.
Indulge in these …
- Nuts and veggies with 1-2 tbsp hummus, plain yoghurt or guacamole
- Green smoothie (3:1 ratio of vegetables to fruit)
- Dry roasted chickpeas or edamame
These options combine protein and good fats, which give you the energy boost you need. Plus, they keep you sustained for longer periods of time, which prevents you from having an energy crash before dinner.
Keep it clean and simple and always listen to your body.
Love Gaynor x
