Accredited practising dietitian Kate Di Prima suggests eating every three hours to keep your energy up.

You should also:

• Eat slow-release carbohydrates. Kate says: ‘Not eating enough slow-release carbs saps energy – these foods are fuel for your body.’ So opt for dried fruit, nuts and low-fat yogurt, and avoid sugary snacks – the energy you get from these comes crashing down soon after eating, leaving you feeling worse and wanting more. 

• Drink enough water throughout the day to avoid dehydration and fatigue. Fluids also help remove waste products from the gut and sharpen concentration and memory retention. Drink 45 to 55ml per kilo of body weight, and drink a glass before every coffee or alcoholic drink to replace lost water.

• Eat an iron-rich diet. Iron transports oxygen in the blood, and if your levels are low you may feel lethargic. Chicken, fish, red meat, eggs, legumes, dark green leafy vegies, dried fruit and iron-fortified foods are all good sources.