If you’re trying an intermittent diet, you may have experienced “slugs” or a feeling of sluggishness during the day. This can be an uncomfortable experience and can make it tough to stick to your eating plan.
However, there are many ways to combat this feeling and reduce slugs. Below are 30 tips to help you feel your best while following an intermittent diet.
1. Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated is important for overall health and can also help reduce feelings of sluggishness. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day when following an intermittent diet.
2. Avoid processed foods
Processed foods can be stripped of key nutrients that your body needs for energy. Stick to whole, unprocessed foods when trying an intermittent diet to keep your energy levels up.
3. Get enough sleep
Sleep is essential for energy and overall well-being. Aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night to feel your best while on an intermittent diet.
4. Eat enough protein
Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, including muscles. Make sure you’re getting enough protein in your diet to feel energized throughout the day.
5. Plan your meals
Planning your meals can help you stay on track with your eating plan and prevent overeating or making poor food choices.
6. Exercise regularly
Exercise can boost energy levels and improve overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day when trying an intermittent diet.
7. Choose healthy fats
Healthy fats are an important part of any diet, including intermittent diets. Choose sources like nuts, seeds, and avocados for sustained energy throughout the day.
8. Cut back on caffeine
Caffeine can disrupt your sleep and cause feelings of jitteriness or anxiety. Try to limit your caffeine intake when trying an intermittent diet.
9. Eat slowly
Eating slowly can help you feel fuller and prevent overeating. This can also help reduce feelings of sluggishness after meals.
10. Don’t skip meals
Skipping meals can cause your blood sugar levels to drop, leading to feelings of sluggishness and fatigue. Stick to a regular eating schedule when trying an intermittent diet.
11. Eat fiber-rich foods
Fiber can help regulate your blood sugar levels and prevent feelings of sluggishness. Choose sources like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for sustained energy throughout the day.
12. Avoid sugary beverages
Sugary drinks can cause your blood sugar levels to spike and then crash, leading to feelings of sluggishness. Stick to water or unsweetened beverages when trying an intermittent diet.
13. Take breaks throughout the day
Taking breaks throughout the day can help you stay focused and energized. Try taking a quick walk or doing some stretching exercises to combat feelings of sluggishness.
14. Eat regular snacks
Eating regular snacks can help regulate your blood sugar levels and prevent feelings of sluggishness. Choose snacks that are high in protein and fiber for sustained energy throughout the day.
15. Manage stress levels
Stress can cause feelings of fatigue and sluggishness. Implement stress-management techniques like meditation or deep breathing when trying an intermittent diet.
16. Avoid alcohol
Alcohol can disrupt your sleep and cause feelings of fatigue. Try to limit your alcohol intake when trying an intermittent diet.
17. Eat lean meats
Lean meats like chicken and turkey are high in protein and low in fat, making them a great choice for sustained energy throughout the day.
18. Avoid high-sugar foods
High-sugar foods can cause your blood sugar levels to spike and then crash, leading to feelings of sluggishness. Stick to foods that are low in sugar when trying an intermittent diet.
19. Eat a variety of foods
Eating a variety of foods can help ensure that you’re getting all the nutrients your body needs for sustained energy throughout the day.
20. Practice mindful eating
Practicing mindful eating can help you stay focused on your food and prevent overeating. This can also help reduce feelings of sluggishness after meals.
21. Supplement with vitamins
Supplementing with vitamins can help ensure that you’re getting all the nutrients your body needs for sustained energy throughout the day.
22. Don’t eat too late at night
Eating too late at night can disrupt your sleep and cause feelings of sluggishness the next day. Try to finish eating at least 2-3 hours before bedtime.
23. Avoid processed sugars
Processed sugars can cause your blood sugar levels to spike and then crash, leading to feelings of sluggishness. Stick to natural sources of sugar when trying an intermittent diet.
24. Eat breakfast
Eating breakfast can help regulate your blood sugar levels and prevent feelings of sluggishness the rest of the day.
25. Implement time-restricted feeding
Time-restricted feeding can help regulate your blood sugar levels and prevent feelings of sluggishness. Stick to a consistent eating schedule when trying an intermittent diet.
26. Limit your sodium intake
Too much sodium can cause your body to retain water, leading to feelings of sluggishness. Try to limit your sodium intake when trying an intermittent diet.
27. Use smaller plates
Using smaller plates can help regulate your portion sizes and prevent overeating. This can also help reduce feelings of sluggishness after meals.
28. Experiment with different types of intermittent diets
There are many different types of intermittent diets, and what works for one person may not work for another. Experiment with different types of intermittent diets to find what works best for you.
29. Don’t compare yourself to others
Everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Don’t compare yourself to others when trying an intermittent diet.
30. Stay positive
Staying positive can help you stay motivated and stick to your eating plan. Focus on the positive changes you’re making and the progress you’re making towards your goals.