Combating Sluggishness. . . Caffeine and sugar do provide an immediate energy, but the effect is fleeting. A carbohydrate-rich diet, including breads, cereals, rice, beans, pastas, fruit, juices, and vegetables, will boost your energy. Make up the balance with high-carbohydrate snacks, such as apples or bagels.
Protein quickens thinking and reactions.
Choose lean sources, such as skinless chicken, fish, and nonfat yogurt, because digesting fat diverts blood from the brain causing weariness. Dehydration causes lethargy. Regular exercise increases circulation, blood sugar levels, metabolism, and helps maintain your ideal weight. For a quick exercise boost, dash up and down a flight of stairs. Power napping improves concentration, mood, and job performance.