Maintaining Daily Diets

Sammie Chen_SportsAnatomy1
SIMEON LAM
Sports Editor

One of the most vital parts of any athlete’s daily routine is keeping their body healthy and fit. Of course, diet is a major aspect of staying in shape. The main goal of many athletes is to have a diet that will help them maintain their level of performance day to day and recover from injuries.

One of the most important types of foods for athletes is carbohydrates. This includes whole grains, rice, bread, fruits and vegetables. The reason athletes need carbs is because these are transformed into sugar by the body which gives the body energy that is stored in our muscles. Also, sports drinks and bars are not always the best option, depending on the intensity of the workout.

Protein is also a vital part of an athlete’s diet. Protein-rich foods, such as fish, beef, chicken, eggs and milk, are used to maintain an athlete’s muscles. However, it’s important to control the intake of protein and emphasize lean meats. Lastly, fluids, whether water or sports drinks, are essential for restoring lost electrolytes, which help your body’s reactions become faster again. However, all of this works only if athletes control the amount of fat they eat. While some fats are good, some can be detrimental to an athlete’s condition.

Overall, all of these diets that athletes have keep them fresh throughout the season. While they all have their share of fatty meals, athletes should know the importance of carbs, proteins and liquids to boost performance in their sports.

MOOR graphic by SAMMIE CHEN