Question:
Anyone out there work graveyard shift?
I just began working 12a-8a and am having a hard time adjusting to an eating schedule. Should I be eating every 3-4 hours even if it is 2am? or should I be trying to avoid food all together at these weird hours?? Any advice is appreciated!! — Jennifer C (posted on July 13, 2002)
July 13, 2002
Years ago I worked the graveyard shift, and life was supposed to be exactly
the same as if you were working the dayshift except "opposite".
You sleep during the day now, just like you used to sleep at night.
Therefore, your eating schedule during the night would be the same as
during the daytime. Your "breakfast" may be at 8 PM vs. 8 AM,
and so forth. I'd suggest you make up a 'written' schedule and try very
hard to stick to it. Xerox copies of the schedule; seeing it and checking
it off as your go through your night will help you keep on track. Don't
forget to add your protein intake, vitamins and calcium supplements onto
the schedule as they are just as important as your food intake. Also,
you'll have to drink your water and fluids, too, so you may find yourself
stumbling to the bathroom during your sleep time. Personally, I loved
working at night, but sometimes adjusting to a restful sleep schedule is
difficult because, in reality, your INTERNAL CLOCK has just been turned
completely around. Good luck. If you have any questions and would like to
contact me personally, I'd be more than glad to add another dime's worth of
opinion. Marilyn---- [email protected]
— Dispatcher M.
July 13, 2002
Interesting question. I worked that shift in months 3-7 post op and it
nearly killed me. It was a slower shift and all I wanted to do was eat. I
found myself snacking and going off plan more. It was also during this
time I developed some really bad eating habits that I am now trying to
break. I also had a day job and found I was literally eating around the
clock. I am trying very hard to overcome this and am looking for a
dietician and/or counselor to help me with this. Good Luck! Get in touch
with me if you want to know more! :)
— purdue_1993
July 13, 2002
As a nurse, I have been working nite shift for about 15 years. I work
7p-7a. On the days I work, I "flip-flop" my time around. I get up
and eat a small "breakfast" at 5p, eat my main meal at 2a, and
eat a small meal at 8a, then to bed at 10a. I drink throughout my awake
times, and do usually have to get up around 2p to go to the bathroom. Also,
as important to do if you work nites, DARKEN your room, and this helps
"fool" your body. I have blackout blinds, and run a fan at the
bedside to muffle noises. Also, when you go to drive home, wear sungalsses.
Sound weird, but it works! Good luck...Stephanie
— januaryrn
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