Not being able to take
lunch is a common issue when you are a nurse. It can be hard to concentrate on
your work when your stomach is so empty that it hurts. There are ways to
alleviate these hunger pains, even if it is only temporarily. You are going to
need to eat eventually.
1. Drink Water
Drinking
water can help with hunger. Being that hunger is the first sign of thirst, a
big glass of water may be all that you need for a while. Water also does
countless other things for your body, and drinking it regularly is great for it.
2. Exercise
Since
you are always running around your
workplace, this may seem pointless. However, by
making sure that your whole body is stimulated,
it can distract it from feeling hungry. Do some stretches or quick and easy
exercises whenever you get the chance.
Related: 5 Time Management Tips Every Nurse Should Know About
Related: 5 Time Management Tips Every Nurse Should Know About
3. Snack Intelligently
Snacking
can help to curb cravings when you do not have time to eat a full meal. Some
snacks are better than others when it comes to managing cravings. Some good,
quick snacks are as
follows:
- Yogurt
o
Low fat, sugar
free yogurt gives you protein to help you stay alert without extra calories.
- · Vegetable sticks
o
Mix it up and keep it interesting. Carrots and
celery are just two yummy vegetables you can eat as a quick snack. Combine with
some dressing or dip for an extra blast of flavor.
- · Cheese and crackers
o
Low-fat cheeses may help you feel less bloated.
These cheeses include but are not limited to brie, cottage cheese, cream cheese,
and edam cheeses.
- · Chocolate
o
A quick sugar fix could be all that you need for
the time being. Chocolate also has
caffeine, so be careful about eating too much.
- · Fresh or canned fruit
o
This can be a convenient and easy snack that is
also super healthy and delicious.
4. Chew Gum
While it
may not be appropriate for work, chewing a stick of gum can help to reduce
cravings. It can also help you to concentrate, which can be difficult when your
stomach is growling. If you have a chance to take a quick break, drink some
water and pop in a piece of gum after a snack.
5. Keep Your Hands Occupied
Doing
this can help cravings since you are distracted. You are lucky enough to have a
job that allows you to use your hands frequently, if not all the time. This
method can be something that you do automatically, and focusing on it can
distract from the pangs.
Having hunger pains as a nurse can be frustrating. You are
trying to help people, and yet you cannot
even get a moment to take lunch. However, there are ways to distract yourself
from the hunger that can result from not having enough time to eat.
Drinking water, exercising, snacking, chewing gum, and
keeping your hands occupied are all ways to help with these cravings. Figure
out which will work best for you and try it out. You may not get relief for an extended period of time, but it can be just
enough to hold you over for as long as you need.
Related: International Nurses Association - What's Your Superpower? T-shirt
Related: International Nurses Association - What's Your Superpower? T-shirt
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