Food for thought as nutrition expert visits Shire House

A Lichfield nutrition expert stopped by at coworking and office space Shire House as part of its new Coffee Conversations initiative, which gives local people and businesses a platform to talk.  

Speaking about the importance of great food and drink, working life and the festive period, Alishia Farrington (pictured), founder of The Nutrition Doll, praised the company’s healthy fruit bowl and then sat down to give a talk about carbs, healthy fats and the importance of food prep. 

“It really all starts with good quality electrolytes,” says Alishia. “That should kick-start everyone’s day because electrolytes contain essential minerals that keep your body balanced and your muscles and nerves working smoothly."  

When it comes to morning habits and hot drinks, Alishia explains that tea and coffee are great but recommends having caffeine after breakfast, not on an empty stomach, to help avoid cortisol spikes and the energy crashes that can follow later in the day.

She also advises avoiding caffeine after 12pm as it can linger in the system and impact sleep quality.   

Alishia said: “Also be mindful of the milk you choose, some people find dairy harder to digest, especially if they’re prone to gut discomfort.

“Alternatives like coconut or almond milk can be gentler for some people and are naturally lighter, which makes them a good option for those looking to reduce bloating.” 

She went on to say that lunch and dinner can be especially challenging when you’re juggling a full-time job and a full-time family. 

“A great tip when you’re making dinner is to simply make a bit more for the next day,” said Alishia.

“Preparation is everything. Aim for a balanced plate, lean proteins, healthy fats, and slow-release carbohydrates, because together they keep you fuller for longer, support stable energy, and help avoid that mid-afternoon crash.” 

And when it comes to the festive period, Alishia advises: “It’s all about balance, not restriction.

Enjoy treats and festive favourites, but try to keep your meals balanced overall, include plenty of fruit and vegetables, and stay hydrated.

“If you can, for every alcoholic drink, have a glass of water. It might feel and look a bit weird, but your body will thank you the next day.”   

Alishia also praised the space at Shire House, saying it felt like being in central London or New York City.

She enjoyed a barista-made oat milk latte, the coffee station at the Birmingham Road venue, which is open to the general public.