Why do I crash in the afternoon, and what helps?
Most afternoon crashes come from the natural post-lunch dip, a heavy or sugary lunch, short sleep, too little water or late caffeine. What helps: a lunch with protein and fibre, water, a short walk in daylight and a regular bedtime. Supplements may only claim that certain nutrients contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
What causes the afternoon slump?
- The natural post-lunch dip in alertness.
- A sugary lunch, which can leave you flat an hour later.
- Short sleep, the most common cause of tiredness, says the NHS.
- Too little water.
- Late caffeine, which cuts tonight's sleep.
Tired all the time? See a GP to rule out iron deficiency, thyroid problems, diabetes and sleep apnoea.
What helps in the afternoon?
- Lunch built on protein, vegetables and slower carbohydrates.
- Water first, and coffee before 2pm.
- Ten minutes outside in daylight.
- The same bedtime most nights.
Which nutrients may claim to reduce tiredness?
The authorised wording is "contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue". It belongs to vitamins B2, B3, B5, B6, B12 and C, folate, magnesium and iron, when a serving gives at least 15% of the reference value. No claim is authorised for "energy boost" or "beats the 3pm slump".
What in VH Life carries an authorised claim?
VH Life also contains niacin and riboflavin at claim level. It has no added caffeine and is not a stimulant.
| Nutrient | Per sachet | % NRV | Authorised claim, as registered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin B12 | 250µg | Over 15% NRV | Vitamin B12 contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue |
| Vitamin B6 | 1.4mg | 100% NRV | Vitamin B6 contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue |
| Folate | 400µg | 200% NRV | Folate contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue |
| Vitamin C | 900mg | 1,125% NRV | Vitamin C contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue |
| Pantothenic acid (B5) | 12mg | 200% NRV | Pantothenic acid contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue; contributes to normal mental performance |
| Magnesium | 65mg | 17.3% NRV | Magnesium contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue |
| Chromium | 100µg | 250% NRV | Chromium contributes to the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels |
NRV: Nutrient Reference Value. A nutrient carries its registered claim when one sachet a day gives at least 15% of the NRV. Vitamin B12 is shown as over 15% while the manufacturer confirms the exact figure.
Where does VH Life fit?
VH Life is a morning sachet, not an afternoon rescue. Lunch and last night's sleep still decide most of the afternoon.
- £34.99 for a box of 14 sachets, or £49.99 for 2 boxes (28 sachets) every 4 weeks on subscription
- One 11.8g sachet a day in 250 to 500ml of cold water. Made in the UK; vegan and sugar-free, as printed on the box
Free UK delivery. 30-day returns on unopened boxes.
Sources
- NHS: Tiredness and fatigue (opens in a new tab), causes and when to see a GP, read 16 September 2026
- NHS: B vitamins and folic acid (opens in a new tab)
- NHS: Dehydration (opens in a new tab)
- Great Britain nutrition and health claims (NHC) register (opens in a new tab), authorised wording and conditions of use, 19 May 2026 edition
VH Life is a food supplement, not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. This page is not medical advice. Not suitable if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you take medication or symptoms persist, speak to a pharmacist or GP.