Oct 30, 2023

Energize Your Nursing Journey: Food for Thriving Through Long Shifts

Updated: Dec 19, 2023

Night shift energetic nurse — Nurse working nightshift

Energize Your Nursing Journey: Food for Thriving Through Long Shifts

It can be hard on the mind and body to work long shifts. It's simple to get into bad eating habits, but watching what you eat is essential. Whether you're a dedicated nurse or a front-line worker whose schedule changes often, the food you eat during long work hours can significantly affect your health.

Now, let's talk about some of the best things to help you stay focused and full of energy during your long shifts. These foods were carefully chosen because they are healthy and give you power for a long time. Remember that your health is important to us; we're here to help you become healthier and more energized.

This blog post will discuss easy to prepare healthy food that can give you more energy and make a big difference in shift work mental health wellness. We have everything you need to fuel up, from healthy muesli to tasty dark chocolate. Read on one bite at a time to learn how to feed your body for success.

Energizing Trail Mix Recipe — Energizing Trail Mix

Recipe: Energizing Trail Mix Looking for a simple snack that keeps you energized throughout your shift? Try making your trail mix. Here's how:

Ingredients:

1 cup of almonds
1 cup of walnuts
1/2 cup of dried cranberries
1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine the almonds, walnuts, dried cranberries, dark chocolate chips, and pumpkin seeds.
Mix everything thoroughly.
Portion the trail mix into small, resealable bags for easy snacking during your shift.
Grab a bag when you need a quick energy boost. Enjoy!

Oatmeal: A Power-Packed Breakfast for Long-Lasting Energy

Muesli is a breakfast food that gives you long-lasting energy. Not only is muesli a warm and comfortable breakfast food, but it's also a secret tool for nurses who have to work long shifts. This food can be used in many different ways. It is high in fibre and complex carbohydrates, which give your body energy all day. In addition, muesli has vitamin B, which is an integral part of turning food into energy.

Muesli can be changed to fit your tastes, making it even more attractive. You can make it your own by adding different nuts and veggies. You can enjoy a tasty, energizing breakfast that sets a good mood for the day, whether with fresh berries or a sprinkle of nuts.

In the following section, we'll talk more about the health benefits of muesli and give you some creative ideas for making your muesli filling and energizing. Find out how this easy thing you do in the morning can make a huge difference during your long shifts.

Recipe: Customizable Oatmeal Bowl Start your day right with a customizable oatmeal bowl. Here's how:

Ingredients:

1/2 cup of old-fashioned oats
1 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based)
1/2 cup of your favorite fruits (e.g., berries, bananas, or apples)
1-2 tablespoons of nuts or seeds (e.g., almonds, walnuts, or chia seeds)
1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup (optional)
A pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the oats according to the package instructions using your choice of milk.
Once cooked, transfer the oats to a bowl.
Top with your favorite fruits, nuts or seeds, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon if desired.
Mix and match ingredients to create your perfect oatmeal bowl. Enjoy your energizing breakfast!

Chocolate, Nuts, Seeds, and Snack Ideas: Boosting Energy Levels Throughout the Day

Nuts, seeds, and snack ideas can help you stay energized during the day.

To keep your energy up, eating well during your shift is essential. Nuts and seeds are great snacks that you can take with you. These foods have many healthy fats, protein, and fibre, keeping you full and alert all day. This group has many of the best nuts and seeds, like sunflower, pumpkin, and walnut seeds.

Night Shift Snack Ideas — Fresh Nuts and Seeds

You can use nuts and seeds in many ways, which is excellent. You can snack on them or put them in salads and other foods. We will talk about different ways to boost your energy by adding these tasty treats to your meals and snacks. This will help you stay full and awake.

The Power of Dark Chocolate to Wake You Up

Along with nuts and seeds, dark chocolate might be an excellent snack to add to your food list that gives you energy. Dark chocolate, especially kinds with at least 70% cocoa, is good for you in more ways than one. Caffeine and theobromine are natural chemicals that can give you a quick energy boost and help you concentrate.

When you feel tired in the middle of your shift, a small piece of good dark chocolate can help you stay awake. Remember to drink coffee in moderation since too much coffee can make you antsy. During your break, a square or two can help you focus without giving you the shakes.

I hope you find these snack ideas helpful tips on how to make the most of dark chocolate, nuts, and seeds during your shifts. These easy but helpful tips will help you keep your mind and energy level in check no matter how hard your nursing chores are.

Dark Chocolate Healthy Snack — Dark Chocolate Snacks

Dark Chocolate and Nut Energy Bites

Ingredients:

1/2 cup of mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, or your favorite nuts)
1/4 cup of dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher)
1/4 cup of rolled oats
2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Instructions:

Start by roughly chopping the mixed nuts. You can use a food processor or chop them by hand to your desired consistency.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stove.
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped nuts, rolled oats, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Pour the melted dark chocolate into the nut and oat mixture.
Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated in chocolate.
Line a small tray or plate with parchment paper.
Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized energy balls.
Place the energy bites on the parchment paper and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
Once the energy bites have hardened, transfer them to an airtight container.
Store them in the refrigerator, and grab a couple whenever you need a quick energy boost during your shift.

These Dark Chocolate and Nut Energy Bites are packed with protein, healthy fats, and a touch of sweetness from the dark chocolate. They are not only delicious but also a convenient snack to keep you fueled and focused during your demanding nursing shifts. Enjoy!