Every meeting needs a good presentation, engaging conversation, and snacks.  Did I just say snacks?  This may not be at the top of everyone's meeting agenda, but the right snacks can really make a difference.  The last thing you want to be heard at your meeting is the growl of protesting stomachs.

Many places offer coffee and doughnuts or other pastries to help tide members over until the end of the meeting.  However, these sugary snacks are just filling everyone with empty calories and are not actually satisfying.  I mean, I love glazed doughnuts as much as the next person, but there are many healthier, and still tasty, options that will actually benefit those in the meeting.  The main purpose of these meeting snacks is to keep members focused.  We all know how distracting hunger can be, no matter how exciting the meeting.  Making sure members are full and focused can greatly increase the effectiveness of your meeting and participation from members.

Some great alternatives to those sugary scoundrels are fruit and vegetable trays, cheese and nut platters, oatmeal muffins, and trail mix.  Click here to see trail mix recipes that are sure to mix up your meeting.

Now I know that not everyone likes to munch on raw veggies.  For those who need a little more flavor in their lives, here are some tasty dips that won't compromise the healthiness of your snack.  Also, you can never go wrong with a good hummus recipe.

Once the growls have subsided, the meeting can proceed.