Are you one of those who work in night
shifts? While others are sleeping soundly, you have your work routine. Working
in night shift is opposite to the activities and social life in general, as
well as family life and the body's biological rhythms, and may increase the
risk of several chronic diseases. If you work the night shift, give special
attention to your diet to stay healthy.
Diet Rich in Nutrients
Night shift workers often do not get enough
sleep, and sleep deprivation is associated with an increased risk of obesity.
According to Harvard Medical School's Division of Sleep Medicine, sleep
deprivation is also associated with increased risk of diabetes, the body's decreased
ability to fight infections and cardiovascular disease (heart and blood
vessels). Besides getting more sleep, eat a balanced and nutritious diet.
Avoid High Fat Foods
Digestive problems, such as ulcers,
heartburn, and indigestion, are more common in those who work in night shifts.
Digestive system slows down at night, and even food can be well tolerated
during the day can cause problems when eaten in the evening. Digestive problems
are also aggravated by eating in a hurry, especially snack foods high in fat,
caffeinated beverages, cabbage, onions, spicy foods and fried foods.
Eat in small portions
Nutrition Counseling Center at Cedars-Sinai
suggest that night shift workers ate food as usual but in small portions,
before the hours of 1 am, which contains protein, healthy fats and complex
carbohydrates are balanced. An example could be a sandwich made of whole wheat
bread stuffed with chicken breast, spinach, and mustard instead of mayonnaise
and served with fruit or vegetables, or other types of protein-rich menu which
features healthy fats and other complex carbohydrates. Limit yourself to eat a
light meal or snack before bed in the morning.
Limit Caffeine
Many night workers who choose to consume
coffee or soda to stay awake so it can continue its work. Caffeine can decrease
the number and quality of sleep, and the effect will be even more apparent in
people over the age of 40 years. Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages within 5
hours before you sleep.
When working at night, instead of making your body
energized by consuming snacks or caffeine to keep your energy level, better use
some of your break time to do a brisk walk in a safe area around where you
work. We recommend that you do not do dinner 2 times a night, during in the
workplace and with family at home, because it can make you experience excess
calorie intake. Better bring a healthy snack with a nutritional balance of the
home rather than eating dinner with an extra portion of food or snacks high in
calories and fat in your workplace.





