What to Eat on Film Days | Healthy Meal Planning and Snack Ideas

We all know film days can be long and exhausting, leaving little time for healthy eating habits. However, maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for staying productive and energized on set. In this post, we'll explore the importance of healthy eating on film days and provide tips and suggestions for meal planning, snacks, and hydration.

A. Importance of meal planning

Meal planning is key for staying on track with healthy eating habits, especially on busy film days. By planning your meals in advance, you can ensure that you have healthy and nutritious food options available throughout the day. We at Just Basl Productions tend to always throw in a few snack bars in our cine bags because sometimes we never know how the day will play out.

B. Easy meal planning tips

• Choose easy-to-prepare meals that can be made in advance

• Incorporate a variety of food groups for balanced nutrition

• Choose foods that will keep you full and energized, such as whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats

C. Meal prep ideas for film days

A lot of times the food will be provided to us by our client, but if you have a healthier option from them you are best to go with that so that you can keep your energy level high throughout the day. As great as a slice of pizza and a soda sounds, you will definitely pay for it later in the day when you start to crash. Another option is you can start to make your lunches. I know I know, this can be hard seeing that you are probably already planning so many other things for the shoot. Here are few options below that you could use for meal prep:

• Make a large batch of quinoa or brown rice for easy meal prep

• Pre-chop veggies for quick and easy snacking

• Pack healthy snacks such as nuts, fruit, and hummus for on-the-go snacking

A. Importance of healthy snacks

Again, I can’t stress enough the importance of healthy snacks. They are essential for maintaining energy levels and preventing hunger throughout the day. Snacking on unhealthy, processed foods can lead to energy crashes and decreased productivity.

B. Quick and easy snack ideas

• Apple slices with almond butter

• Greek yogurt with berries

• Raw veggies with hummus

• Trail mix with nuts and dried fruit

C. Snack prep for film days

• Pre-portion snacks into small containers or bags for easy snacking on-the-go

• Pack snacks in a cooler or insulated bag to keep them fresh throughout the day

It is important to choose foods that are brain-boosting foods. Eating brain-boosting foods can help improve cognitive function, memory, and focus. Some examples of brain-boosting foods include:

• Blueberries, which are high in antioxidants and can improve memory and cognitive function

• Fatty fish like salmon, which contain omega-3 fatty acids that can improve brain function

• Nuts and seeds, which contain vitamin E and other nutrients that support brain health

• Leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale, which are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that can improve cognitive function

These recipes may seem a little far fetched with the fast movement of set days, but if you have the option, you will be able to maintain a high energy level through the whole shoot!

• Salmon and roasted vegetables: Roast a variety of veggies like sweet potatoes, broccoli, and bell peppers with olive oil and herbs, and serve with baked salmon for a brain-boosting meal.

• Blueberry and almond smoothie: Blend blueberries, almond milk, almond butter, and spinach for a tasty and nutritious smoothie.

• Quinoa and veggie bowl: Cook quinoa and top with sautéed veggies, avocado, and a poached egg for a filling and brain-boosting meal.

Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining energy levels and avoiding fatigue on film days. Dehydration can lead to decreased productivity and concentration, so it's important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. The best drinks for hydration include water, coconut water, and herbal tea. Avoid sugary drinks like soda and energy drinks, which can lead to energy crashes. We try to take water breaks whenever we can and try our best not to forget to hydrate. You are so focused on the shoot you tend to forget to hydrate. Here are few examples of how to stay hydrated:

• Bring a refillable water bottle and drink water throughout the day.

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.

• Snack on hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and celery.

Eating a healthy and balanced diet is crucial for staying productive and energized on film days. By incorporating meal planning, healthy snacks, brain-boosting foods, and hydration into your routine, you can ensure that you have the energy and focus you need to perform at your best on set. Remember to take care of your body and prioritize your health, even on busy days. We would love to know how you stay hydrated and how you eat on set days, feel free to leave comments below!