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Snacks often serve as a quick energy source during the workday, especially during meetings that stretch for hours. This is necessary specifically since research shows that the most popular time to hold meetings is 10 am. Often, these meetings can extend over lunchtime.
The typical fare of cookies and chips won’t suffice. It does little more than provide a temporary sugar high, often followed by an inevitable crash. Offering nutritious snacks can sustainably boost overall energy levels and improve focus without the side effects of processed sugars and fats.
What Foods To Include in Your Snack Selection
When selecting snacks, aim for balanced macronutrients: proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Here are the food items to include for your next meeting.
Mixed Nuts
Mixed nuts are a powerhouse of nutrition, providing a rich source of heart-healthy fats, proteins, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc. They are excellent for maintaining energy levels throughout the day and can help satisfy hunger without consuming heavily processed snacks.
Almonds, walnuts, and cashews offer different flavors and distinct health benefits through their bioactive compounds, which are critical for good health.
However, before serving them, check if any of the meeting attendees have nut allergies.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt has high protein content, making it a filling snack to curb hunger. Unsweetened Greek yogurt is excellent for stabilizing blood sugar levels, particularly for those diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). It is also a good calcium and probiotics source, essential for bone health and digestive wellness.
Offering a selection of plain and minimally sweetened varieties can cater to those looking for lower-sugar options.
Fresh Fruits
Apples, bananas, and grapes are not only refreshing but also provide a quick source of natural sugars for energy. They’re packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting overall health and digestion. Fruits are appealing for their convenience and natural sweetness, making them an easy snack for on-the-go eating. It’s also a great option to sweeten the deal without added sugars.
Vegetable Sticks and Hummus
Combining vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, and cucumbers with hummus offers a nutrient-rich and filling snack. The vegetables provide a satisfying crunch and are high in fiber and water, helping to keep you full and hydrated.
Hummus, made primarily from chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil, adds a creamy texture and a punch of protein, making this duo a balanced snack.
Whole-grain Crackers
If you’re looking for a more versatile snack option, you can never go wrong with whole-grain crackers. They provide a good source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, which help maintain steady blood sugar levels and offer sustained energy. They can be an excellent base for creating mini-snack platters topped with avocado, cheese, or lean meats.
Dark Chocolate
Even a small piece of dark chocolate can satisfy sweet tooth cravings while offering health benefits. It contains antioxidants known as flavonols, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Dark chocolate with high cocoa content lowers sugar levels and maximizes health benefits compared to regular varieties. It’s a great way to indulge in a luxurious yet guilt-free treat.
Energy Bars
When selecting energy bars, look for those with minimal added sugars and whole-food ingredients. Bars that contain nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dried fruits provide a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. They are a convenient snack option for meetings, as they require no preparation and are easily distributed.
Cheese Slices or Cubes
Cheese is a filling snack that provides protein and calcium. Offering a variety of cheeses, from hard types like cheddar to softer varieties like mozzarella, can cater to different preferences. Cheese goes well with fruit or whole-grain crackers for a more satisfying snack that combines various textures and flavors.
Beef Sticks
Beef sticks are an excellent protein-rich snack that can boost energy levels throughout the day. They are suited for those who prefer savory over sweet snacks and seek substantial fuel to power through intensive meetings.
These sticks, made from dried and seasoned beef, are flavorful but portable and convenient, requiring no preparation or refrigeration. Offering grass-fed and organic options can also cater to health-conscious individuals mindful of quality and sourcing.
Best Practices for Choosing Healthy Meeting Snacks
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Meetings can sometimes be draining. Make sure you prepare snacks with a purpose. Here are some best practices to help choose the best snacks:
Go for Cognitive Enhancers
Certain foods are renowned for their brain-boosting abilities. Offering food items that boost brain power helps during sessions that demand high levels of creative thinking and problem-solving.
Consider Snack Pairings
To maximize the cognitive benefits of snacks, consider pairing items that synergistically enhance brain function. For example, pairing a moderate amount of dark chocolate-covered almonds can boost mental performance and maintain energy levels. These pairings cater to the taste buds and ensure the brain receives a steady supply of nutrients for optimal functioning.
Add Hydrating Beverages
Hydration is critical in maintaining concentration and mental alertness. Dehydration can result in reduced cognitive abilities and increased feelings of fatigue. Provide a variety of hydrating options at meetings. Depending on the blend, herbal teas can offer calming or rejuvenating properties.
Instead of sugary sodas, which can lead to a quick spike and subsequent crash in glucose levels, consider offering natural juice spritzers or coconut water. These beverages provide hydration with a touch of natural sweetness, making them more appealing without the health drawbacks of added sugars.
Prepare a range of drinks that cater to all preferences and dietary needs, ensuring that all attendees remain adequately hydrated and attentive.
Presentation Matters
How snacks are presented can significantly affect their appeal and the overall meeting atmosphere. Research shows that food presentation is key to promoting mindful eating, too.
Arrange snacks creatively using various serving platters, baskets, and tiered stands. This makes the snacks easily reachable without interrupting the meeting flow.
Time Snack Breaks
Strategically timing the availability of snacks can greatly enhance their effectiveness. For sessions that run longer than an hour, scheduling a mid-session break gives attendees a much-needed pause. It’s also the perfect time for them to refuel and hydrate. This timing helps maintain high energy levels throughout the meeting, ensuring that productivity remains high.
Ensure a Variety of Options
Provide a broad selection of snacks to cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. Regular rotation of the snack menu keeps the offerings fresh and exciting, preventing snack fatigue. This variety not only makes snack breaks more enjoyable but also shows a thoughtful consideration of individual preferences.
A Fresh Take on Meeting Snacks
Adopting a thoughtful approach to snack provision in meetings can transform the experience. It will help you encourage people to attend and engage in discussions. So, plan your meeting snacks carefully. Go for healthier and varied snack options. Embrace these changes and watch as the new snack culture enhances satisfaction and productivity at your meetings.
