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| Image credit to Google image search |
That said, how do you know what food is really best for you to eat before, during, and after play? Well, we did a little research, and here's what we found...
Top 5 energy foods
Now, some of these won't surprise you, but some might. With a media struggle against carbohydrates beginning a few years back, it's easy for us all to be scared of the "C" word (carbs). But in reality, good carbohydrates are your bodies' fuel for a solid workout (according to this article and many more we found), or, in your case, peak performance throughout an entire tournament. In light of the second round of the Colorado Crossroads National Qualifier coming up this weekend, we thought we'd share some tips on what yummy foods you can gobble down before, during, and after play to maintain your energy levels and be just as on fire during day three as you were day one.
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| Photo credit to sciencedaily.com via Google image search |
Who knew the cute little blue fruit could provide abounding energy levels? We found that just one cup (around only 80 calories, mind you) can not only provide necessary fuel for your body, but some studies have shown the immune-system building fruit also can improve balance and coordination. Yes, please!
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| Photo credit to chefmom.com via Google image search |
2. Whole wheat pasta
This one probably doesn't come as a surprise to many of you. After all, when you think "carb up!" your mind probably wanders to the nearest Italian food restaurant (hello delish!). This healthy treat is packed with fiber and protein but be careful not to overdo it. You want this dish to speed you up, not weigh you down.
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| Photo credit to howstuffworks.com via Google image search |
Surprise! We'd never heard this one before, but after reading this article it makes total sense. They said it best, so we'll simply quote them...
"A sweet potato also packs in more than a quarter of your daily needs for vitamins C and E, nutrients shown to prevent cell damage in athletes competing in extreme environments (altitude, heat, cold, pollution), as well as enhance muscle recovery after intense training."
A little tidbit we'd like to add... something tells us that piling on the butter and brown sugar slightly decreases the nutritious value of this gem. We suggest looking up some healthy ways to enjoy this power-packed food.
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| Photo credit to elements4health.com via Google image search |
Who doesn't like a yummy, juicy orange? It brightened our day (and made us say, "Hmm, why didn't we think of that?") to learn what a good energy booster this little ball of fruit can be during play. The natural sugar gives you just the quick fix you need, and just one navel orange meets an entire day's requirement of vitamin C, this article said. Woohoo!
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| Photo credit to quakeroats.com via Google image search |
In researching we found that this is one of the best foods you can eat for breakfast before a tournament. It can help provide long lasting energy as it is digested more slowly throughout the day (whereas foods like bagels are digested faster, according to this site). For more on healthy eating for an athlete, we found this site to be helpful.
Overall, what you put in your mouth does affect your ability to compete at your highest level. Trust us. Even if you don't trust us, trust the millions of articles we found that have research to prove it. At the same time, what you don't put in your mouth can also affect your ability to compete at your best. Remember, as an athlete one of the worst things you can do is restrict your diet. Don't overdo it by overeating, and don't overdo it by not eating at all. Find a healthy medium by putting nutritious fuel into your body. You'll be amazed at the results.
Happy eating!
- Amarillo Juniors
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