Most of us know that the amount and quality of sleep you get is the primary determiner of daytime wakefulness. However, other factors make a difference. Your daily diet can also influence your energy levels and wakefulness. It’s particularly important for individuals who operate heavy machinery to be mindful of their nutrition and meal planning.
Timing of meals
When you eat can be just as impactful as what you eat, at least for energy levels. Eating a large meal close to bedtime can keep you awake, preventing you from getting the restful sleep you need. On the other hand, it’s hard to fall asleep on an empty stomach. It’s best to consume the evening meal at least a few hours before bedtime. If you’re hungry later, stick to a small snack.
Maintenance of blood glucose
For every type of job, wakefulness is crucial for worker productivity. However, for certain workers, wakefulness is even more important. Heavy machinery operators and drivers must remain alert at all times, and this can be tricky to do if they consume foods that will spike their blood glucose levels.
Tired workers will often grab a convenience snack made up of simple carbohydrates like sugars in order to temporarily boost their energy levels. However, this will quickly lead to a blood sugar crash, causing even worse fatigue. It’s also why people who eat a large, carb-heavy lunch are more likely to experience an afternoon slump. Instead, choose high-protein meals paired with complex carbohydrates from vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
Role of hydration
The role of hydration is often overlooked, but it’s critical for worker alertness. In fact, fatigue is one of the first indicators of dehydration. Unless you’re planning an intense workout, skip the fancy electrolyte beverages. Plain water will get the job done properly.
Hexagon is an industry leader in operator safety technologies, including collision avoidance systems and operator alertness monitoring. Improve your company’s safety record today by incorporating these cutting-edge technologies into your operation.
