Energy is a very important for athletes to have. Energy comes from the food we eat and keeps us going throughout the day. It is key to a successful game or practice when athletes eat well. Most people associate eating healthy with losing weight, but that is not always the case. It is crucial for athletes to eat healthy because it fuels their performance, gives them necessary energy, and improves overall health.
According to WebMD, it is important for athletes to get about 1.2-1.4 grams of protein, avoid fatty foods, drink fluids often and reload on carbs. Every pound lost during exercise should be replaced with at least three cups of water for the next couple hours. The diet of an athlete should depend on what sport they play, how much training they do, and the amount of time they spend exercising. By following these tips, athletes should be in shape for their season.
“I wouldn’t say there are certain foods I stay away from during season but I definitely like to try and eat healthier,” Alex Swallow, a junior field-hockey player, said. “There isn’t really any foods I can’t stand. I’m not that big of a fast food eater because I don’t eat meat so I tend to stay away from places like McDonalds, Wendy’s, Burger King etc. Sometimes it’s difficult because we always stop for food after away games so my choices are limited, but if we do go to a fast food restaurant I usually like to get a salad or cheat sometimes and get fries.”
“I try to stay away sugary and fattening food during season, but my teammates and I still love getting Taco Bell after practice! I drink protein before workouts and I find that that really helps give me an extra energy boost,” Dylan Butler, a junior baseball player, said.
“I really do enjoy cooking because I can make the meals I want and the way I like them and it’s generally better for you. I cook a lot at school because you can eat whatever you want on your own schedule and it saves money” Nick Straub, a junior golf player, said.”Throughout the year I pretty much can eat whatever I want. I just make sure I do not eat too unhealthy all the time.”
During games, it is so important to keep hydrated because your body is made up of about 60% of water and when working out your body rapidly looses water so it is important to rehydrate. Another important tip is to eat a meal that is higher in carbohydrates about two hours before a game.
Cabrini athletes know the importance of eating healthy and staying in shape. In order to give their best performance during games and practices, the athletes do their best to fuel their bodies with the proper foods and nutrients. By eating right, they are equipped with the energy needed for a successful season!
