Free Online Event | 26 August | 45 Minutes | Zoom
Can what you eat influence how you think, focus, and perform at work?
In this VLCM session, we explored the connection between plant-based nutrition and workplace performance with Chiara Chianese,, who shared practical, evidence-based insights into how food choices can support energy, focus, productivity, and long-term wellbeing.
Drawing on her background in scientific research, genomics, pharmaceuticals, and business, as well as her personal experience adopting a plant-based lifestyle, Chiara examined how nutrition can become a valuable tool for supporting performance in demanding professional environments.
During the session, we discussed:
How nutrition influences energy levels, concentration, and cognitive performance
Why focus depends on multiple factors, including sleep, stress, workload, and diet
A practical framework for making food choices that support sustained energy and mental clarity
The importance of nutrient density, balanced meals, and consistent eating patterns
How to align nutrition with different workplace demands, from routine tasks to high-stakes presentations
The role organisations can play in supporting plant-based choices and employee wellbeing
One of the key themes of the discussion was that optimising nutrition is not about perfection. Instead, Chiara encouraged participants to better understand their individual needs, pay attention to what helps them perform at their best, and make small, sustainable changes that support both health and productivity.
The session concluded with an engaging Q&A covering topics such as promoting plant-based initiatives in remote and hybrid workplaces, overcoming resistance to change, leveraging Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), and framing conversations around health, sustainability, and ethics.
If you missed the live event, you can watch the full recording now and discover practical ideas for improving your own workplace performance while exploring the benefits of plant-based nutrition.