Athletic Nutrition
As an athlete it is essential to fuel your bodies with nutrient dense foods.
Nutrient Dense foods have vitamins, minerals, protein, complex carbohydrates. and healthy fats.
Complex Carbohydrates
Your body's preferred source of energy, especially as an athlete!
Simple carbs are often what we grab as a quick snack: pretzels, candy, chips. Etc.
Complex carbs help you perform your best as an athlete. Complex carbs contain both a starch and a fiber. Examples: fruit, vegetables, oats, whole wheat products.
Proteins
Protein food sources help grow your muscles to be able to stunt, jump and tumble. Proteins are essential as an athlete.
Examples: chicken, fish, beef, plant-based proteins (legumes, vegetables, tofu)
When you need a before practice snack, attempt to have something with both a protein and a carb! (apples and peanut butter, whole grain carrots and hummus, lunch meat and crackers)
Healthy Fats
Fat is needed in the diet. Fat helps fuel your brain and keep your organs insulated. A diet too low in fat can lead to health issues.
What are healthy fats? Avocado, olive oil, fatty fish, eggs, cheese, nuts, dark chocolate, peanut butter.
Vitamins and Minerals
You can get all your vitamins and minerals from fueling your body with fruits, vegetables, complex carbs, proteins and healthy fats.
Everything in Moderation
Does this mean, I can never have a cupcake or sweet treat? No! Of course not! You may certainly still eat sweet treats from time to time. However, when you make small swaps in your everyday eating habits you will start to feel better and be the best athlete you can be!
Brainstorm
What snacks am I currently eating that I can swap to make myself a better athlete?
Do I eat before practice? Why or Why not? Could incorporating a healthy snack before practice help me achieve more athletically?
What about before the competition or big game? I know it is tempting to get nervous and not eat before, however, would you preform your best if you had a healthy snack or meal first?
Why This Impacts You!
As a student athlete, it is imperative to fuel your body with foods that make you the best possible athlete. I challenge you this week to try some healthy swaps in your diet and see if you notice a difference in your athletic ability and in your life.
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