Just like any other full-time employee, I have to be alert and attentive as a work-at-home mom. My eyes are glued to a toddler twelve hours a day, and, somehow, I have to find the attention to make sure the two dogs don’t tear the house to shreds in the process! All that mental workload needs fuel; in order to stay awake, I have to intentionally provide for my body and mind.
It’s hard not to skip or replace meals with an extra cup of coffee during a long, tough day. I’ll be the first to admit I don’t always hit the ‘daily dozen’ that Dr. Michael Greger suggests. I do, however, try my best to follow these simple rules throughout the day. I try to give myself the best chance for a successful, task-busting day.
Start the Day Right
I like to start my day with a glass of water and a plant-powered smoothie or fresh juice with fiber mixed in. These liquids will get my brain going quickly, but provide long-term energy because of the high fiber content.
Hungry Between Meals?
Always try to get in at least 16 ounces of water if you’re feeling hungry before a meal. I don’t disagree with snacking by any means. I’ve found, however, this can usually be resolved with a glass of water. Sometimes I’m still hungry, though, and will reach for some raw fruits and veggies to hold me over until the next meal.
Make Mealtime a Breeze
Part of the daily struggle for me as a new mom was finding time to make my own meals and snacks. I like to cut corners by eating leftovers for lunch each day! I know some people have a hard time with this, but it’s how I grew up – and it honestly makes mom life so much easier.
Dinners don’t require much thought the day of, either. I do meal-planning, so I always know what’s on the menu for the week. I make enough for leftovers for everyone in one go.
What to Avoid
High-carb, low-fiber foods are our worst enemy… no joke. These foods cause blood sugar to fluctuate widely; this results in a tired, sluggish feeling, and constant hunger that are difficult to brush away. Avoid foods like white bread and pasta, white crackers, sugary drinks, cookies, and most prepackaged snack foods.
Reach For These Instead
The best foods for a long, demanding day are those high in micro-nutrients (your vitamins and minerals) and high in fiber. Carbs aren’t bad if there’s dietary fiber along with them – this slows down the rate at which they are absorbed into the blood stream. Slower absorption is healthier for blood sugar levels, and will keep you feeling awake and powered throughout the day.
I suggest raw fruits, vegetables, salads, whole grains, legumes, and many other plant foods. The benefit of plant foods is that they essentially all have fiber; you don’t have to worry about calculating or looking anything up.
Be Prepared
The next time you have a busy day ahead, make extra dinner! Prepare some whole-food plant-based snacks for the fridge. When you get hungry, don’t reach for highly processed foods – pull out those carrot sticks instead. Your body and mind will thank you, and you’ll finally be that task-busting champion you set out to be! Go get it, guys and gals; fuel your success with the right stuff.
