Great Race HQ is fast paced and fun working environment but like any office – we can definitely hit the 3pm energy slump. At that time, when your willpower is weakest and your stress is at its highest, you want to make sure you’ve set yourself up for success by having healthy snacks on hand. As we are out in the road (rain or shine) hosting events all week long, flying interstate and hugging many winners, balanced nutrition and avoiding making poor food choices is really important to remaining a Master of Fun!
BANANAS OR APPLES
Packed with vitamins, minerals and fibre, Banana’s and Apples are a perfect pick-me up during a long day. Banana’s are loaded with Potassium which is an essential nutrient that maintains fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. Apples are full of flavonoids and antioxidants (reportedly more antioxidants then a serving of berries!) which boost the immune system, help to detoxify the liver and even help whiten your teeth. Apples are also said to provide the same energy as a regular sized coffee and you won’t suffer from that caffeine withdrawl!
ALMONDS
Almonds are full of good fats as well as vitamin E, calcium, zinc, phosphorous, magnesium, iron, selenium, copper and niacin. This nutritional powerhouse is great for your brain, bones and immune system. Whilst they are calorically dense, there are at least 18 clinical studies that show that adding a handful of nuts to your normal daily intake, did not result in weight gain and in 2 of the studies, it actually resulted in weight loss!
POPCORN
Popcorn (air popped not fried) is an excellent treat because it is filling and packed with fibre. This whole grain food can help decrease inflammation and wholegrain consumption is associated with a decreased risk of heart disease. There is also the added benefit of feeling like you are treating yourself.
DARK CHOCOLATE
You can pry our chocolate from our cold, dead hands! Thank god that Dark Chocolate (the low sugar kind) is nutritionally dense. Whilst it should be consumed in moderation, Dark Chocolate is rich in antioxidants, fibre, iron, magnesium, copper and manganese. Clinical trails show that dark chocolate can lower blood pressure (perfect after a long meeting) and improve blood flow and well as improve brain function. Just make sure you buy 70% cocoa and over!
BOILED EGGS
The myth that eggs are bad for you has long been dispelled but boiled eggs haven’t quite recovered their cool snack reputation. Eggs are perfect for those who want to increase their protein intake and keep themselves full until dinner time. Eggs are full of disease fighting nutrients including lutein and zeaxanthin. They contain carotenoids and choline which promote brain health. They are also delicious and very affordable, for those on a budget!
** We’re the Masters of Fun, not the Masters of Health so please take this article as it is intended, the research and interest of people who need to keep themselves at the top of their game and not in replacement of your own practitioners advice.
