Green tea
3pm can be witching hour as far as concentration levels are concerned. But instead of reaching for a coffee, tea or cake for a mental pick-up – switch to green tea.
Green tea contains much lower levels of caffeine than coffee, however helpful for maintaining alertness. "Green tea works its magic pretty quickly – it's good for a pep up," says naturopath Alison Bull.
Water
Another strategy is to reach for the cold water tap. Often, fogginess can be triggered by dehydration. As naturopath Jennifer Jefferies explains: "A lot of people can't think straight and don't look after their mind simply by not drinking enough water, which is the conductor for the electrical signals in the brain. Our brains become constricted without adequate water intake."
Somewhere around eight glasses a day is a good number to aim for, but up this when you're exercising, or when it's particularly hot.
Fish
Essential omega-3 fatty acids also help maintain your cognitive function throughout the day. They are a major component of the brain and lower levels of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA have been associated with slower cognitive function.
The pattern police
If low energy is a way of life for you – be it at 3pm each day or other intervals – get behind the cause. Go and see a health professional and don't allow the afternoon fog to be a way of life. For simple ways to amp up your overall energy:
- Exercise
- Make sure you're getting adequate levels of B vitamins
- Cut down on liquids that dehydrate your body such as coffee, tea and even some juices!
- Don't skimp on sleep