How To: Keep Yourself Awake During Long Drives

BY Editor

Staying awake during long drives is not an easy feat. It may be surprising to learn that making the right choices in food and drink may have a greater effect than many people believe. These simple tips provided by Houston personal injury and car accident lawyer Hank Stout will help drivers remain alert for long periods of time.

Make Frequent Stops

It is important to take frequent breaks to remain alert. The best ways to awaken the body are to take a brief walk or run and to do some stretching. It is a good idea to learn various yoga poses such as downward dog as they are proven to stimulate the body for longer periods of time than many other types of stretching.

Entertainment

Remaining entertained is also essential. Today, it is easier than ever to be entertained whilst driving. One might choose to listen to a talk show on satellite radio, bring a book to listen to or simply plug in a favorite hit list from a portable music device. Truck drivers recommend playing upbeat songs loudly to remain stimulated.

Food

Avoid foods that will make you crash such as those filled with sugar. The last few decades of driving have created the habit to reach for processed snacks and sugary sodas from gas stations during long trips. One should choose foods filled with Vitamin B and Vitamin C such as dairy and oranges. If taking vitamins is the only option, be certain to consume the vitamins alongside a healthy meal to ensure the vitamins are absorbed by the body properly. Packing snacks and meals prior to departure is best because often times, healthy snacks are not an option on the road.

Caffeine

People have been reaching for caffeine to remain alert for decades with good cause; however, try to avoid caffeine until it is absolutely necessary. Start by staying hydrated with water and electrolytes. Once caffeine is necessary, it is important to consider healthier alternatives in this regard, as well. Drinking caffeinated soda or sugary energy drinks is not the only option to remain alert. Teas such as green tea contain as much if not more caffeine than many soft drinks and provide additional health benefits. And, studies suggest that the consumption of coffee, which typically contains the highest concentration of caffeine, in moderate levels may provide health benefits.

Adjust the Temperature

A quick way to become tired at the wheel is to become too warm and comfortable. Fresh air will keep any driver awake for longer periods of time than if the person were to drive with the heat on high and the windows closed. It is also a good idea to keep the thermostat slightly cooler than you would like to keep the body working harder than normal to remain more alert.

Sleep Before the Drive

This may seem logical, however many people may not actually think to do it. Take a nap before getting into the car for a long drive. If the plan is to leave first thing in the morning, go to bed early and drink plenty of water the night prior. This will help to prevent fatigue for a longer period of time.

Long drives may have many thrills and excitement, however they can easily become dangerous once the driver becomes tired. These tips will help keep all drivers on the road safe at all times.

Sutliff & Stout, PLLC is a personal injury law firm located in Austin and Houston, Texas. For more information on this subject, connect with Sutliff & Stout, PLLC on Facebook and Google+.