As a Moh Tech, our day to day job can vary with how many hours we'll work. Sometimes we are so busy that we don't realize we haven't had anything to drink or eat since breakfast. Staying hydrated and fueling your body is very important when it comes to maintaining your energy levels. Here are some tips for keeping your energy up.
Hydrating your body
According to mayoclinic.com "Water is your body's principle componet and makes up to 60% of your body weight. Every system in your body depends on water. Lack of water can lead to dehydration and even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired. Drink eight 8oz glasses of water each day."
Sounds simple right? But how many of us can really say we drink 64 ounces of water everyday?
Solution- Bring a water bottle everywhere you go. Most offices have water coolers available, but are usually in the staff kitchen or waiting room. Having your own water bottle nearby makes it more accessible. Try to drink at least 2 full bottles while at work. I like to multi-task by drinking water while I stain my slides. One hand is staining, while the other is hydrating. Try it!
Fueling your body
Do you start to get hungry around 10am? Feel drained and tired around 2 or 3pm? Don't go for that second or third cup of coffee, instead reach for a snack. According to Fitnessmagazine.com, "snacking keeps your metabolism revved up and is a great way to boost your energy. You need a snack that's full of nutrients to power you through your between-meal stretch."
Fitness Magazine recommended energy boosting snacks
1- Fresh Bananas, Apples, Oranges & Berries- Loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, as well as good carbs for an energy boost. Serving size- 1 piece fresh fruit or 1 cup chopped or berries
2-Yogurt & Cereal - Sprinkle some crunchy cereal on yogurt for a great snack. You'll get carbs and protein from the Yogurt and energy from the cereal, making you fuller longer. Serving size- 1- 6oz cup
3- Popcorn- is actually a healthier snack than pretzels and provides fiber. Microwave beforehand and bring in a ziplock bag, or bring a small serving size bag to pop at work.
4- Half a turkey sandwich- You can have real food as a snack too. 1 slice whole wheat bread, 2 ounces of turkey, and mustard provides energy boosting carbs and protein.
5- Red Pepper & Hummus - Vegetables offer good fiber, plus loads of nutrients and vitamins, while hummus adds some protein to up the snacks staying power. Serving size- unlimited vegetables with 1/4 cup hummus.
6- Almonds & Walnuts- packed with good fats, fiber, vitamin E and omega 3's. To stop yourself from overeating, fill an altoid tin with nuts for the perfect serving size(about an ounce)
7- Soy Crisps- sometimes you just want a snack food type of snack. These are salty and crunchy with 5 grams of protein per serving and have more staying power than chips or pretzels. Serving size- Eat the whole 2 serving bag!
