HOW TO AVOID THE 3PM SLUMP + ZUCCHINI SLICE RECIPE

HOW TO AVOID THE 3PM SLUMP

It’s rolling around to 3pm, and the vending machine begins to beckon you.The sweet treats are starting to shout your name down the corridor.

You’ve hit the dreaded afternoon slump.

You may have started your day full of energy, but by mid-afternoon you feel exhausted. It’s perfectly normal to experience different levels of energy throughout the day, but there are certain foods you can eat to help you avoid the post-lunch slump. The energy slump is part of our normal circadian rhythm. Our natural reaction is to crave a sugar hit to help bring our energy levels back to normal and help us soldier on through the rest of the day but reaching for the right foods throughout the day can help us power through.

SNACKS

Look to have a high protein snack in the afternoon. Foods that are high in protein and healthy fats will keep you feeling fuller for longer and the body takes longer to break down protein and digest it. Most fruits contain a variety of sugars (glucose, fructose and sucrose) and fiber – a good combination for a source of energy. Pack a banana in your lunch and save it for when you’re feeling drained later in the day. Whole wheat toast is a great option. Glucose is the best energy source for the brain and central nervous system. You can find glucose in carbohydrates like whole wheat and other grains. Pair some low GI carbs with protein and your snack is sorted. Below are some of our favourite combos:

Wholegrain crackers and low-fat cheese Corn Thins with ricotta 1 x tub of yoghurt and a piece of fruit Tzatziki dip with crispbread 1 x slice of low fat cheese on seedy toast Small handful of roasted nuts Natural peanut butter and a banana Hummus and wholegrain crackers Celery and nut butter Hummus and crudites

Boiled eggs Unsalted nuts Greek yoghurt Low fat cheese A can of tuna Bananas

ZUCCHINI SLICE

If you fancy creating something delicious and healthy at home to have on hand in the fridge, you cant go past savoury slices. They are so easy, versatile with flavours and they keep well for a few days to grab on the way out the door. Try our Zucchini Slice to help get you through the work day slump.

INGREDIENTS

6 eggs 1 cup grated zucchini ½ cup self-raising flour 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

RECIPE NOTES Grated into this onion, carrot, corn or sauté a little leek or bacon. Remember these are lovely served cold in the lunchbox. INSTRUCTIONS

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4. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a 20 x 30cm baking tray with baking paper. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, add the remaining ingredients and season to taste. Pour the contents into the prepared tray and bake for 25 minutes or until nice and brown. Allow to cool slightly, then serve sliced with a simple little salad.