Sometimes the day can drag by when your energy level goes down after lunch. Here are some ways to avoid the so-called afternoon slump.

1. Add some citrus. Citrus fruits can awaken the senses, so try adding some slices to your water or bring them as a snack. If you don’t want to do either of these, you could get some citrus oils to dab onto your hands or wrists.
2. Leave white flour out of your lunch meal. Around 20 million Americans are sensitive to gluten, which can cause headaches and fatigue after consuming wheat and rye grains. Even if you aren’t sensitive to gluten, you can still experience the same effects. White flour goes through processing that turns the grains into simple carbs, and these are then converted to glucose. Insulin then grabs the glucose from your bloodstream and stores it for future energy, depleting you of your current supply for hours.
3. Get up and get moving. After lunch, it’s a great idea to go for a short walk. A brisk walk can boost your metabolism, heart rate, and blood pressure. It can also increase serotonin and dopamine levels, so you’ll feel energetic and happy. And if the sun is out during your walk, vitamin D will help fight off fatigue.
4. Drink some water. When you’re dehydrated, the oxygen flow to the brain will decrease. This causes your heart to work harder to get the oxygen it needs to the rest of your body, causing an increase in fatigue. Drink a full glass of water if you’re feeling sleepy or more tired than usual.
5. Straighten up. If you sit at your desk slumped over, now is the time to stop. Not only does it put a strain on your spine, but it also causes your muscles to work overtime and use extra energy. Sit with your shoulders back and your ears above your shoulders.