It is mandatory for an athlete to eat right and stay
fit. Specially before participating in some game, it is extremely
important for them to check upon what they consume. As what they eat
affects how they feel and ultimately affects their performance. Though
there is not a fixed diet chart to be recommended as a pregame meal plan
because every game and every individual has their own requirements but
there are obviously certain things that should be kept in mind while
planning a pregame meal.
Include rich carbohydrate diet
It is very important for an athlete to get a meal that is high in
carbohydrate as carbohydrates are the instant source of energy. The meal
before the game should thus contain ample amount of carbohydrate as they
provide glucose to the bloodstream quickly and thus charge the athletes
with an instant source of energy. White bread, vegetables, and cereal
without excess fiber can be included in the pregame diet.
Include fruits in the diet
Many nutrition specialists are of the opinion that fruits should be
included in the pregame diet as they contain natural sugar which is
digested easily and proves to be a good source of instant energy.
However, it should always kept in mind that the fruits included in the
pregame diet should be light.
Include moderate amount of proteins in diet
Protein is an important part of an athlete's diet, so always remember to
include rich protein contents in the diet. However, generally the food
rich in protein is also high in fat content. Excess of this diet may
cause sluggishness and nausea to the athelete, so remember to serve them
in small servings. Chicken breast or a small piece of sirloin steak will
be the best protein supplement.
Include fluids in your diet
Include lots of fluid in your diet as they hydrate your body cells and
also get digested easily. They also comparatively provide energy quicker
that their solid counterparts. So include glucose drinks and juices in
the pregame diet. However, consume it moderately as it can also lead to
frequent urination.
Strictly avoid Caffeine, Sweets and fat containing products
Few things that you must avoid in the pregame diet are caffeine, sweets
and fatty products. Avoid caffeine because it causes excess urine
production that can lead to dehydration. Sweets, on the other hand
should be avoided because they lower the blood sugar level leaving you
exhausted and lethargic. Also avoid deep fried foods, gravies, dry
fruits and dairy products because they can take a toll on the energy and
activeness of the athlete.
Don't experiment with the meal
Make sure whatever is provided to the athlete as a pregame meal is
already consumed by him on prior occasions. In order to avoid any last
moment mishap like dysentery or food allergy, remember not to experiment
with food. Also, go according to the taste of the athlete, so that he
eats properly.
Consume it on the right time
Make sure whatever is eaten as the pregame diet, is eaten it on the
right time. Dieticians say that for an afternoon or evening game, the
athlete should be given a full meal about 3-4 hours before the game so
that the athlete doesn't feel hungry during the game. However if due to
any reason the meal has to happen closer to the game, try to include
easily digestible small quantity of food.
 |
