Event professionals, affectionately known as eventprofs, are the unsung heroes of the high-energy, fast-paced world of events. From coordinating logistics to managing last-minute hiccups, the demands on their bodies and minds can be relentless.
While the adrenaline rush can be exhilarating, the combination of stress, long hours, and irregular eating patterns can wreak havoc on wellbeing.
The Cortisol Conundrum: Why Appetite Takes a Hit
When you’re in the thick of event day chaos, your body’s stress hormone, cortisol, kicks into high gear. While cortisol helps you stay alert and focused under pressure, it also suppresses your appetite. This is a survival mechanism, your body prioritises dealing with the immediate stressor over digestion.
Unfortunately, this can mean skipping meals or grabbing whatever’s quick and convenient, which often leads to nutrient-poor choices. Once the event is over, cortisol levels drop, and hunger comes roaring back, often resulting in overeating or choosing comfort foods that don’t fuel your body optimally.
The Importance of Balanced Glucose Levels
Your brain relies almost entirely on glucose to function. During long event days, irregular meals or poor food choices can cause dips in glucose levels, leading to brain fog, fatigue, and irritability, the last thing you need when juggling event logistics.
Similarly, your body’s blood sugar levels need to remain stable to sustain energy, focus, and endurance. Rapid spikes and crashes can leave you feeling drained, less productive, and more prone to burnout.
Protein: The EventProfs’ Secret Weapon
Protein is a powerhouse macronutrient that supports both body and brain. It provides sustained energy, helps stabilise blood sugar levels, and promotes the production of neurotransmitters that enhance mood and focus. Incorporating protein-rich snacks and meals during event days can keep you on your A-game.
Protein Rich Foods for Event Days
Here are some quick, portable, and protein-packed options to keep you fueled:
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, or mixed trail mixes.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: Prepped in advance and easy to eat on the go.
- Protein Bars: Opt for low-sugar, high-protein options to avoid energy crashes.
- Greek Yogurt: Packed with protein and probiotics, perfect for a quick snack.
- Jerky or Dried Meat: High in protein and easy to stash in your bag.
- Chickpeas or Edamame: These are protein-packed and can be seasoned to taste.
- Smoothies: Blend a protein powder with fruits and spinach for a nutritious meal substitute.
Practical Tips for Event Day Nutrition
- Plan Ahead: Pack a “survival kit” of protein-rich snacks to avoid relying on event catering or vending machines.
- Eat Small, Eat Often: Grazing on snacks throughout the day can help you maintain steady glucose levels without overwhelming your system.
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate fatigue and impair cognitive function. Aim to drink water regularly, and consider electrolyte-enhanced drinks if you’re particularly active.
- Avoid Sugar Overload: While tempting, sugary snacks and drinks can cause sharp spikes in energy followed by crashes. Pair carbs with protein for sustained energy.
- Prioritise Breakfast: A balanced breakfast with protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs can set you up for success.
The Long-Term Impact: Avoiding Burnout
Taking care of your nutrition isn’t just about surviving event day, it’s about thriving in the long term. Chronic stress, combined with poor eating habits, can lead to burnout, fatigue, and even health issues. By making mindful food choices and prioritising your wellbeing, you can maintain the energy and focus you need to succeed without sacrificing your health.
As an event professional, you’re often so focused on taking care of everyone else that you forget to take care of yourself. But remember: your wellbeing is the foundation of your productivity and creativity. So, fuel your body and mind with the right foods and take on your next event with confidence, energy, and resilience.
Event Wellbeing Matters 