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Having come through a busy morning and taken - well for some of us anyway - a lunch break, it is at 2:22pm when most workers hit the wall.

A survey of 2,000 workers, commissioned by Get More Vitamin Drinks, reveals that a lack of water and eating too much at lunch contribute to a fall off in productivity at this time.

But why?

Francesca Bennet, health and wellbeing programme manager at AXA PPP healthcare, said: “If you’re lacking in energy and motivation in the afternoon, don’t worry, you’re not on your own. Sleep is dictated by circadian rhythms also known as ‘the body clock ’ and sleep homeostasis.

"Circadian rhythm regulates physiological and behavioural processes including temperature control, hormone production, alertness and sleep. Sleep homeostasis refers to the need for balance; with every waking hour the drive for sleep increases.

“The urge to sleep increases towards 2pm, this is driven by a natural dip in circadian alerting system and an increase in sleep homeostasis drive. This causes what is known as the 'afternoon slump’ which occurs approximately 12 hours after we are in our deepest sleep at 2am to 3am.

“The afternoon slump is a normal feeling and has previously been associated with eating a big meal.

This, however. is not the direct cause but may act as a contributing lifestyle factor on the sleep wake cycle.

"Poor lifestyle habits and insufficient quality and quantity of sleep can increase the feelings of tiredness and the afternoon slump.

"Some ignore it and power through, some reach for a sugary snack or strong coffee, but however you try to manage this sudden strike of lethargy, it can often feel difficult to shake off."

Tip on how to avoid hitting the wall

Eat well

Sugary snacks might provide you with an instant boost, but the effects wear off quickly and can leave you feeling sluggish. Instead prepare a lunch that provides slow burning energy to avoid a drop in energy levels later on in the day.

Watch your posture



We all know that slouching can be bad for our backs, but have you considered that poor posture may also be adding to your feelings of tiredness?

It might seem too easy, but making an effort to sit up straight at your desk could be a simple but effective way to improve your concentration in the afternoon.

Keep things interesting

Not surprisingly, boredom can affect our productivity levels at work, so taking regular breaks, varying your workload and setting new goals could help keep you motivated after lunch.