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Actually, a bit of fatigue in the afternoon (usually hitting around 3 p.m., varying according to when you wake up) is very common. Studies have shown that humans were actually "designed" to sleep in the afternoon--just like when we were kids.
Are you spreading out your meals/snacks evenly throughout the day? Doing so will keep your energy levels stable all day long. You may be experiencing either a drop in blood sugar because it has been too long since you have eaten, or you could have had a quick surge in blood sugar followed by a sharp drop. Refined carbohydrates/sugar/very large meals can cause this.
My advice would be:
1. Avoid or limit caffeine. You should try to have less than 1-2 cups per day of any caffeinated beverage (tea, coffee).
2. Drink more water- this will actually sustain your energy more than coffee will and keep it up.
3. Exercise regularly. This will give you more energy too.
4. Eat several smaller mini-meals throughout the day to keep your energy levels stable.
And if all else fails...Take a 20 minute nap in the afternoon!
Written by Nicole Nichols, B.S. & Certified Fitness Instructor
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SparkPeople's 500-Calorie Thanksgiving Feast
