To help optimize your energy, fuel your body consistently each day by enjoying three wholesome nutrient-rich meals along with two to three healthy satisfying snacks. Work to combine high-quality carbohydrates with a serving of lean protein to maximize your energy. Build meals that are comprised of at least three of the five foods groups and snacks that contain a minimum of two food groups. The five food groups are: grains, protein (fish, poultry, beef, eggs, beans, and nuts), dairy, fruits and vegetables. Think about quality food choices and work to eat mindfully, paying close attention to the appearance, aroma, flavor and texture of your food as well as how it feels in your stomach. Aim to eat until you are comfortably full. Enjoy the rewards of feeling energized throughout the day by fueling your body consistently and nutritiously.
For additional information on snacks for athletes, watch Katie on Channel 8’s CT Style Show http://www.wtnh.com/dpp/ct_style/in_the_kitchen/nutritious-snacks-for-atheletes
Katie Jeffrey, MS, RD, CSSD, is a registered dietitian, Board Certified as a Specialist in Sports Dietetics, a columnist, and the owner of FitNutrition, LLC, in Stonington, CT. She provides individual nutrition counseling, sports performance nutrition counseling for athletes and educational nutrition presentations on various topics for all age groups. For more information, call 860-917-6131 or go online to www.fitnutrition.net. Join FitNutrition, LLC on Facebook.
