6 Ways Nurses Can Eat Healthy During a 12 Hour Shift

    

 1. Eat Breakfast! 

     Eating breakfast provides the needed energy to power you throughout the day.

     Quick breakfast =2 Hard-boiled eggs and a cup of orange juice.

      Tip: Boil 6 eggs and refrigerate them. In the morning just grab and go.

2. Stash away!

 Keep a stash of nutrient-dense snacks in your nursing bag on the floor. (String cheese, tuna, and crackers, trail mix, nuts, fresh and dried fruit, yogurt).  

3. Vending machine woes!

 If you must go to the vending machine, try to choose healthier options. Protein dense snacks such as snickers, Peanut m&m's, trail mix, baked chips.     

4. Drink plenty of water! 

Thirst can disguise itself as hunger. Staying hydrated prevents you from overeating.

5. Avoid caffeine!!! 

Caffeine gives you a false sense of energy followed by a sudden crash. Plus carbonated drinks are usually filled with LOADS OF SUGAR!! 

     6.  Snack on! 

In reality, most of us nurses do not get a lunch break. If you’re in this situation, then it is important for you to have small snacks every two hours during your shift. This will keep your metabolism rolling and provide you with ongoing energy.  

Disclaimer: These are just suggestions that stem from factual sources. Ultimately, you know what your body needs. Cater to your needs any way you see fit. :-)