Fuel yourself properly for the important meeting

Your energy and career depend on it

• Try to avoid caffeine.
  Stick to your morning cup of coffee if you must, but limit it to one. Opt for a black or green tea or a glass of orange juice. Caffeine dehydrates the body, which can cause fatigue, lack of concentration and irritability.  Don't forget: get lots of sleep before the day of the meeting.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep hydrated.
  Water also helps process the nutrients consumed throughout the day.
• Include protein, fiber, whole grains and plenty of fruits and vegetables for your breakfast, lunch and snacks.
  Nutrient-rich foods will help you to improve your energy and focus during the day. Protein and fiber also help stabilize your blood sugar and curb your cravings.
• Avoid processed foods with added sugar, refined flour and little nutrients.
  Bagels for breakfast, or cookies and soda for lunch spike your blood sugar and drain your overall energy and focus.

Breakfast Suggestions
Oatmeal with fresh fruit, green tea or orange juice. Alternative suggestions include an egg-white omelet, and/or wheat toast with peanut butter.

Beverages
Have an abundant supply of water and lemon and lime slices for flavor. Avoid coffee, sodas and high-sugar fruit drinks throughout the day.

Lunch Suggestions
Opt for nutritious catering options, including:

• Side salad options:
• Quinoa à la ranchero: Quinoa (keen-wa) salad is high in protein and fiber. It's a light and refreshing salad that includes quinoa, chick peas, tomato and other vegetables, tossed with a lemon juice dressing.
• Salmon pasta salad: The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon are great "brain food."
• Spicy tempeh salad: Tempeh is a good source of protein. This salad includes tempeh cubes, snow peas, red cabbage, mixed with a spicy lime juice dressing.

Snacks
Avoid cookies, brownies and other high-refined sugar desserts. Opt for a fresh fruit platter with strawberries and other seasonal treats.