Certain food helps to alleviate sleepiness in spring
By admin on 2014-12-30

Though some people feel frisky and energized, "spring feverish" in spring, many others feel tired and sleepy as the rest of the world is waking up.

Traditional Chinese medicine has a term for this, chun kun (春困), or spring sleepiness.

Though it is not an illness, sleepiness and fatigue pose problems for those who really need to stay awake, like students, office workers and drivers.

Contrary to popular belief, sleeping more won't relieve the problem. Eight hours of sleep is usually enough for adults; sleeping longer may reduce activity in the cerebral cortex, making people sleepier.

To prevent or relieve sleepiness in spring, sticking with a regular, healthy timetable is important.

Adjusting diet can help relieve the problem. Modern research indicates that sleepiness in spring is usually accompanied by insufficient protein and vitamins as well as an acidic internal balance.

Eating more alkaline foods, such as fresh vegetables, can help rebalance the system, while greasy foods and alcohol can aggravate the problem.

Fruits rich in potassium, such as bananas, oranges and grapes, help stimulate the nerves.

Eating more protein is recommended.

Traditional Chinese medicine suggests yang-reinforcing foods such as jujubes, jams, potatoes and tomatoes to maintain energy.

Skipping meals or eating too much makes one feel drowsy, aggravating the sleepiness problem in spring.