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