Sporting Success
Proper nutrition is important if you want to succeed in sports. Athletes burn large quantities of calories as they exert themselves on the field or in the gym. There is a lot of focus on sports drinks and power bars when it comes to sports nutrition, but there is no substitute for a balanced meal on game day. You need the right combination of energy foods to achieve peak performance.
Main Meal
Complex carbohydrates are very important for athletes. Foods high in carbohydrates provide more calories and more energy. One of the best sources of complex carbohydrates is whole grain pasta. Complex carbohydrates are also found in certain vegetables like broccoli. Boil whole grain pasta and broccoli and combine with fresh tomato sauce. This meal is on the heavy side, so eat two to four hours before your game or sporting event, as your body needs time to digest the food and process the nutrients.
Protein Boost
Protein is the primary source of fuel for the muscles. Eating the proper amount of protein helps build stronger muscles and provides sustained energy. This is important for athletes who want to avoid an energy crash in the middle of a sporting event. A study regarding protein and sports was published in the January 2009 issue of "Nutrition Today" by Doctor Donald Layman and Doctor Nancy Rodriguez. The study found that the protein in a hard-boiled egg is ideal for athletes. Eggs do not cause a rise in blood sugar and insulin. Eating hard-boiled eggs along with pasta two or three hours before a sporting event provides a sustained boost of energy. Eggs are also a good source of thiamine, riboflavin, vitamins B12 and B6, folate, and other vitamins which are crucial for producing energy.
Pre Game Snack
Eat a small snack an hour or two before the sporting event starts to give your body an extra boost of energy, while leaving enough time to digest the food and avoid cramps and bloating. Low fiber fruits provide a convenient supply of sugars and carbohydrates. Eat a few plums, oranges or cherries prior to the big game. Your body will quickly absorb the energy, and these foods are light enough to be digested in a short period of time.
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