Know that feeling of being on top of the world, when you’re knocking it out of the park? Maybe you pushed yourself to jog an extra mile this morning. Perhaps you pulled up your GPA to an all-time high or killed it during an important client meeting. It could be that you finally tackled that home improvement project, and it looks better than you ever imagined.
At home, in the classroom, or in the conference room, this is how it feels to bring your very best (some may call it your A-Game) to everything you do. The thing is, these triumphs don’t just happen. You make them happen, and for this it helps to have the right fuel.
Fuel to Burn
Eating well is one of the most important things you can do to feed your potential. But it’s a challenge for so many of us. And chances are, you won’t stick with healthy eating unless your food tastes great.
Think of our chefs as your own personal cheering section! They work with our dietitians to create delicious, healthy choices that can power your A-Game when you’re dining out. And they love nothing more than sharing their insights and ideas for when you’re dining in, too.
Behind every accomplishment is a personal story—and for some of us, a moment of food discovery. If you’re searching for inspiration, take a look at how these chefs, dietitians and employees are fueling their own A-Games.
Small Changes, Big Wins
Darren (right) had long struggled with his weight, but his life took a turn for the better the day his daughter Emery was born. “I had to get in better shape if I wanted to be around for her wedding,” he realized. Within weeks he joined a gym, got some guidance on nutrition, and ditched the sugar-sweetened sodas. The lifestyle changes have added up, and now he’s 45 pounds lighter.
What started as an exploration into vegetarian and vegan options for fans at Pittsburgh’s PNC Park became an eye-opening experience for Aramark Chef George Drakulich. By following the diets himself, he increased his nutritional know-how about protein, carbohydrates, and good fats. Before long, he noticed his taste buds changing. What’s more, “I had an energy I can’t explain. I felt like a different person,” he says. More than a year later, he’s still feeding his potential with a vegan diet and has no plans to go back. And he’s more connected than ever to his work at the ballpark, introducing plant-based menu items he loves.
For Melissa (left), success means taking control of her multiple sclerosis through food and exercise.
Her A-Game looks like a completed marathon course and a clean diet that focuses on whole, unprocessed food. She has kept up this lifestyle since 2009.
“I have lost 40 pounds, kept the symptoms of my disease at bay, and transformed the eating habits for my family and myself,” she shares.
All in the Family
Employees like Kate, Danielle (left in photo with her mom), and others can thank their own parents for instilling strong habits in them from a very early age. From learning to bake homemade bread to loading up on veggies to experimenting in the kitchen (and cleaning up the mess!), these routines can set a great foundation that lasts a lifetime.
Simple Steps to Success
Meanwhile, Chef Tim Zintz draws on his over 30 years of Aramark experience to deliver healthy dishes that are packed with flavor. He’s committed to inspiring this way of life at home, in his community, and in Aramark locations. His favorite tip? Turning simple foods such as overnight oatmeal and whole-grain pasta into quick, satisfying meals. It’s something everyone can achieve. “[Healthy eating] is not as hard as you think,” he insists. “It sounds daunting. But my success, and others’ success, show it’s not a drag in this day and age.”
Ready to Crush It?
Ready to ramp up YOUR A-Game (or keep it going)? Experience your own healthy food discoveries and Feed Your Potential 365.
For more tips and tricks, follow along on Instagram @Aramark and keep subscribing to our posts and recipes on the site. You might just find a few new ways to power your A-Game.
Note: Since everyone’s health history and nutritional needs are so different, please make sure that you talk with your doctor and a registered dietitian to get advice about the diet and exercise plan that‘s right for you.