Re: can having lunch earlier make you tired later

Hello, Sheon.

The answer to your question is not so much when you eat but rather what 
you eat and how much.

There are some things to consider.  First of all it's good that you want 
to scrutinize the school's food plan, as many do not serve the most 
nutritious foods.  Obviously it's wise not to include "junk foods" such 
as soft drinks, cakes, sweets, and the like.  What is known in science is 
that a diet high in such foods, especially sweets, deliver a lot of an 
amino acid known as tyrptophan which converts into a brain chemical known 
as serotonin.  High levels of serotonin makes you more relaxed and 
sleepy.  The emphasis should be to always include high protein along with 
complex carbohydrates.  Some examples of the former are:  low-fat dairy 
products, legumes, peanut butter, eggs, fish and soy, while lean chicken 
or turkey breast are also fine.  Examples of complex carbs. are:  whole-
grain breads, whole-wheat noodles, high-fibre cereals, fruits and 
vegetables.  Other ideas in this category include; rice cakes, whole-
grain crackers and how about plain popcorn!  Oils such as olive or canola 
are good to sprinkle on your salads, as are low-fat dressings or low-fat 
dips.  As for drinks, low-fat milk, soy milk, V-8 juice, and fruit juices 
or just plain spring water are all good.  Desserts such as fig bars, 
raisins, dried fruits or nuts can be eaten in moderation.  The idea is 
not to eat too much at any one meal since overeating can make you feel 
sleepy. Also it is important to keep in mind not to skip meals as this 
too can make you more sleepy.  I consider breakfast to be a very 
important meal providing you with enough energy to kickstart your day.   

At recess and/or lunch make time for exercise!  If you are active rather 
than just simply sitting all day, you'll find that you will end up being 
more alert.  Finally, it is important to get enough sleep at night.

Hope some of these tips will aid in improving your school menu and help 
you overcome fatigue later in the day.

Hope that helps,

Peter Bosani.