Healthy Bits · Nutrition & wellness
The afternoon slump
That 3 p.m. energy dip is partly natural; your body's internal clock includes a small afternoon lull. But what you eat at lunch can make it deeper. A meal heavy in refined carbs can spike your blood sugar and then let it drop, leaving you foggy and reaching for sugar or another coffee.
Ways to soften the slump:
- Build lunch around protein, fiber and healthy fat, not just carbs
- Drink a glass of water; mild dehydration can feel like fatigue
- Take a 10-minute walk outside, ideally in daylight
- Keep a snack like apple slices with almond butter on hand
Try this: tomorrow, add a protein to your lunch and take a short walk afterward, then notice how you feel at 3 p.m.
- energy
- blood sugar
- sugar cravings
- movement
Healthy Bits are for general education and aren’t medical advice. Check with your doctor or healthcare provider before making changes, especially if you’re pregnant or nursing, take medication, or are managing a health condition.