Nutritionist-approved 2 foods you need in to avoid lethargy and sleep

Afternoon slump is a common problem that many of us deal with at the workplace. It refers to a low feeling that starts post lunch and continiyes well up to late evening. And this happens mostly after lunch. In a recent post on Instagram, celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar talked about two foods that one should include in lunch to avoid that afternoon slump. Her post reads, "Afternoon slump is not the same as a nap. An afternoon nap of 15-20 mins is advisable and refreshing. The slump refers to a low feeling that starts post lunch and continues well up to late evening."

This dip of energy and focus occurs between 1 to 4 pm and the common signs are fatigue and sleepiness, brain fog, where one finds it difficult to concentrate and remember things. Mood swings are also a sign, where one feels irritable, impatient, and unmotivated.

As per Rujuta's post, two foods that can help deal with lethargy and sleep are ghee and chutneys. Her post reads, "Just the good old ghee & chutneys - a small dose of essential fat, fibre, micronutrients but more importantly of diversity and deliciousness."

Desi ghee is packed with healthy fats (medium-chain and short-chain fatty acids) that provide steady energy without spiking blood sugar, unlike sugary snacks. Also, it contains butyrate, a fatty acid that helps reduce inflammation in the brain and improves mental clarity and help reduce brain fog. Also, ghee is a rich source of vitamins A, D, E, and K, which support cognitive function and immunity, keeping you more alert. As per Rujuta's post, adding at least 1 teaspoon of ghee in your lunch is a healthy practice. You can slather it on roti or add in your dal and enjoy.

Chutney of coconut, dal, flaxseed, and coriander or any regional chutney is something that one should add in their lunch. Use of ingredients like coriander, mint, coconut, or tamarind, which provide natural sugars, fiber, and healthy fats help boost energy levels steady without a sugar crash. Also, use of ginger, garlic, or asafoetida (hing) in chutney stimulates digestion, helping prevent bloating and sluggishness. And ingredients like curry leaves, sesame seeds, and nuts which are commonly used in chutneys are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants that support brain function and fight brain fog. And as per Rujuta, chutneys made with ingredients like coconut, peanuts, or flaxseeds provide fiber and protein, slowing down glucose absorption and preventing energy crashes.

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