| [close window] |
There is a direct connection between the foods you eat and the way your body performs. Choosing healthy foods and drinks at the right time is a sure way to maximize performance.
Food provides fuel for activity; the more active you are, the more fuel your body needs.
Active athletes need to remember that what they eat (and when they eat it) can make or break their performance in a practice or competition that day. Athletes that skip meals force their bodies to work harder to produce energy and as a result, performance suffers.
A good way to ensure that athletes are fueling themselves properly is by eating at least three meals and two to three snacks everyday. Before activity choose foods that can be digested quickly and easily for immediate energy. The body’s preferred energy source is carbohydrate so fruits, vegetables, pretzels, or a small bagel are great choices before a workout. After activity is the time for a combination carbohydrate and protein such as a fruit and yogurt smoothie, turkey sandwich or an apple with a string cheese or some peanut butter. Always have some sort of snack 30-60 minutes directly following activity, followed by a more substantial meal within the next 2-4 hours. This helps to replace energy that has been used and store energy for future activities.
Proper hydration is also crucial to performance as one of the most common causes for fatigue during exercise is lack of fluids. Dehydration can also put athletes at an increased risk for heat illness and injury. Water throughout the day and sports drink during intense activity will help keep fluid levels in a safe range.
Keep your body ready to perform by eating and drinking throughout the day and throughout the season.