5 ways to stay energized and keep your mind sharp from NY ER doctors used to 12-hour shifts

Most Americans are exhausted.But whose energy levels are tested more than an ER doc’s?Between rapid task-switching, split-second triage decisions and complex clinical calls, emergency room physicians routinely power through grueling 12-hour shifts where brain fog is simply not an option.

After all, people’s lives depend on it. For New Yorkers grinding through marathon workdays, that level of sustained focus feels almost superhuman — but it turns out, beating the inevitable 2 p.m.slump isn’t just about willpower or guzzling more coffee. The Post spoke to three ER doctors who shared a few smart food and stamina strategies that help them keep their energy up and their minds sharp on the front lines.When sprinting between deadlines, grabbing a sugary pastry or heavy food truck lunch is an easy trap.

But ER doctors strictly blacklist heavy, high-sugar foods because a post-meal crash can compromise peak performance when patients need them most.“I think a plate with protein, a large quantity of vegetables and a small portion of carbs is ideal to get me through a long shift,” said Dr.John K.

Riggins Jr., medical director of the emergency department at NewYork-Presbyterian Allen Hospital.To keep your mind alert all day, prepare high-protein, portable snacks before your morning commute.Swap out fast carbs for Greek yogurt, hummus with crackers or almonds.

Streamlining your food options eliminates mid-day decision fatigue and keeps your blood sugar steady.Coffee is practically a religion in NYC, but gulping down multiple triple-shot espressos leads to jitters, anxiety… and a hard energy crash.The key is to use it wisely.“Caffeine is a tool, not a strategy,” said Dr.

Anand Ramnarine, chairperson of emergency medicine at Glen Cove Hospital, Northwell Health.For Dr.Alina Mitina, an emergency medicine doctor at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey, it’s all about balance.“You want enough to keep you awake, focused and sharp, but not so m...