Stress can play havoc with your energy levels and mental focus. This can be either physiological stress or mental stress. The workplace is a danger zone for the very reason that unexpected stresses occur regularly and often obtaining the best nutrition is not always easy due to lack of appropriate food sources or time.
To help control energy at brain functioning at work, here are a few quick fixes I have used over the years.
Get some protein -Â Protein helps the brain’s production of dopamine and norepinephrine, which keep you focused and alert. It takes about 2 hours for your body to break down protein, so start with a high-protein breakfast and follow it up with a protein lunch, then mid afternoon protein snack. A great recipe for Protein Balls for bite sized remedy.
Keep the caffeine levels down – Limit coffee to 2 cups a day – too much caffeine can increase your heart rate, making your body feel more stress than the boss is actually causing. Have one in the morning to kick start then one mid afternoon to carry you through those late afternoon meetings.
Chocolate Anti-Anxiety Fix – Dreading an upcoming meeting – Chocolate is the answer. Dark 70% cocoa chocolate stimulates the production of endorphins to relieve stress. The darker and richer the chocolate, the more endorphins your brain will produce. Lasts for about an hour.
3pm Brain Drain Carbohydrate Rescue – Carbs enhance your brain’s uptake of the amino acid Tryptophan”. Tryptophan is converted into serotonin in the brain, making you feel more at ease. Aim for 3 1/2 ounces of carbohydrates. More will cause a serotonin overload, leading to tiredness. Mix carbs with fruits and vegetables; the additional vitamins and nutrients help continue production of serotonin. Lasts for about 3 hours, so plan to eat a late lunch [2pm] to keep the brain focused until 5-6pm.
Zapper