BRAIN FOOD

Our guide to the best foods for meetings and productivity

BRAIN FOOD: MEETING ROOM FOOD FOR BETTER MEETINGS

Whether your hosting clients or holding an off-site meeting with colleagues, at a certain point in the day everyone’s mind turns to food. At The Arch, our delicious meeting room food includes a luxury buffet of healthy options such as fresh farmhouse sandwiches, seasonal salads, hot treats and canapes.

But what about that mid-morning craving or afternoon pick me up? Forget the sweets and biscuits that are full of sugar and trans fats – instead look to superfood snacks to ensure everyone stays switched on and engaged in the meeting.

The brain needs nutrients just like any other part of the body – in fact in needs two times the amount of energy than any other cells in the body. When this huge muscle is lacking in these nutrients there are more opportunities for mistakes, stress and low productivity – not the perfect recipe for a successful business meeting.

‘Brain foods’ are rich in these essential nutrients that have long-term positive effects on the brain and overall wellbeing. For more immediate results, there is no real quick win, as the brain’s primary source of energy is glucose – something found in almost everything we eat. Instead the focus should be on a balanced approach to glucose consumption through the working day, helping to regulate optimal thinking and productivity.

Here are a few simple suggestions to follow:

Eat breakfast

‘The most important meal of the day’ is just that – and shouldn’t be missed at any cost. Mental exercise drains the brain of glucose, so ahead of a day of meetings something as simple as crunchy and watery fruits help to maintain focus

Graze throughout the day

The brain operates at its best with just 25 grams of glucose in the blood stream – so smaller foods like bananas, nuts and berries are great snacking options to keep the brain firing all cylinders

Eat balanced meals

Mixed food group meals are the best option to keep a controlled glycemic index through the day, such as protein combined with carbohydrates rather than one of these foods on their own

Energise your brain on amino acids

Tryptophan and Tyrosine are two essential amino acids found in fish, eggs, meat, yogurt and cheese. These can get through the blood-brain barrier to help you feel more energised and be more productive

Lastly, for a superfood shopping list, look to the below items and get the meeting room stocked for your next brainstorm or client meeting event: