Fuelling yourself for a morning of deep design work

Some days we have lots of smaller tasks to get done and it’s a dopamine hit every time we check that task off. Other days we know we need to concentrate for long periods to break the back of a deep and complex problem.

When our brains are looking for a rest, snacks and drinks are an easy way to get up and take a break. A better way to use that time is to head outside for 5-10 minutes, breathe some fresh air, and let our brains think about something else for a little while. I’ve often found it’s when I’m not thinking about a problem directly, that solutions come easier.

So how do we fuel ourselves for the long haul? We need slow-releasing carbohydrates that can sustain us for 3-4 hours, and some protein and fibre to satiate. My favourite breakfast go-to is some overnight oats. You can add any of your favourite flavours to them and essentially have dessert for breakfast 😋

Below are some overnight oats ideas I’ve used for years which can easily be turned vegan by using substitutes. You can make these in batches as they last up to 5 days in the fridge.

The core

This makes the base for all the flavour combinations. Mix everything together in a bowl, or use a canning jar as it stores easily with a lid in the fridge.

• ⅓ cup quick oats
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 scoop Vanilla protein powder
• ¼ cup 0% greek yoghurt
• 2 tbsp Almond milk (to make mixing easier)

Now for the flavours…

Fruity overnight oats

Add your fruit flavour of choice:

Reduce down some raspberries/blueberries/strawberries in a saucepan. Mix in and put in the fridge overnight

A quick nutty alternative

If you forget to make it the previous night, you can still make a good alternative with just 30 minutes of fridge time. Mix up the core and instead of adding fruit, add a tbsp of your favourite nut butter (almond, peanut etc). This mixture should solidify and soften the oats enough to eat in 30 mins.

Apple pie overnight oats

(makes 2 servings)

• 1 apple
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• 1 tbsp Maple Syrup (or honey)

One of my favorites is also one of the simplest; apple pie overnight oats. Chop up an apple (one apple makes two servings), add the apple, maple syrup and cinnamon to a bowl and mix together. Stick it in the microwave for 1 minute. Add this to the core mixture and refrigerate overnight. <chefs kiss>

Carrot cake overnight oats

• 1/2 cup Grated Carrot
• 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Ginger Powder
• 1/8 tsp Nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tbsp Maple Syrup (or honey)

Grate a carrot and add it to your core mix. Add in all the spices and liquid sweetener and mix together. Put it in the fridge overnight.