The Staff Trainer’s Blog

Did you know that March is National Nutrition Month?

National Nutrition Month was created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to focus on the importance of making healthy informed food choices. This is so tough for me especially when I am constantly on the run. Between conducting trainings and attending meetings, every once in a while, I feel the need to grab something quick to snack on and according to my scale the vending machine is not my friend!

Most trainings, seminars and conferences that I have attended seem to have a direct connection to food. Water is typically served at larger venues, while smaller workshops that I have attended tend to include continental breakfast or lunch. I have learned over the years that there is no greater motivator while conducting trainings than food and as a learning and development professional, it is often a balancing act in merging the two together.

Most States offer standards in providing healthful choices when serving food at meetings or events. Here in the State of New York, guidelines allow for serving snacks including mixed nuts, air-popped popcorn with light seasoning, water and an assortment of fresh fruits such as apples and pears.

So if you are on a budget like me, what are the best snacks to offer that are both filling and nutritious?

Trailmix- Most Trailmix snacks tend to offer a combination of dried fruits, nuts and chocolate. Trailmix is a snack that can be bought in bulk and is easy to store. It also provides a quick energy boost and is great to serve during the midday and late afternoon when most participants start to get tired.

Almonds-Almonds can also be purchased in bulk and there are many health benefits of eating almonds including relief from constipation, respiratory disorders, anemia and protects the artery walls from damage.

Pretzels- This is a snack that comes with iron, zinc and folate and is low in fat. The downside is that the sodium is high, so it should only be offered in moderation

Water- saving the best for last, water has so many great benefits including controlling count calories, helps in digestion and constipation, flushes out toxins and relieves fatigue. If possible, water should be offered throughout the day.

Do you offer any snacks that are not on the list? Would love to hear from you.