I often feel lethargic and tired during the afternoon. Is there anything I eat to change this?

Afternoon slumps are quite natural and part of our everyday lives, but there are ways to overcome this lethargy. It could be down to what you got up to that morning. If you don’t make time for breakfast, you’re more likely to feel sleepy later. Try a breakfast full of protein and wholegrains, such as scrambled eggs on wholegrain toast, porridge with almonds and apple, or a fresh, fruit smoothie. Carbs and fat can fuel afternoon slumps, with fast food and big sandwiches affecting your mid-afternoon energy levels.

You don’t need to cut out carbs and fat altogether, just reduce your portions. Fat takes a long time to digest, leaving you feeling over-full and sluggish. So try a salad with egg, turkey or chickpeas. Or whole-wheat pasta or rice, served with salad and a tomato and olive oil sauce. Chicken soup is another good meal to ward off an afternoon slump.

Also, take a break. It will increase your productivity and might just help you beat the slump. Get up and walk around at least once an hour. Do a few stretches, take deep breaths. Keep hydrated too, grabbing a glass and topping up with cold, fresh water can really help, maybe adding lemon juice or soaked pineapple chunks for extra zing.