Now that we are officially at the 2 month mark from the start of the new year, many of you have probably set some personal goals…produce more power on the bike, swim more efficiently, conquer the open water, etc… How many of you have thought about nutrition as a goal??? No, not weight loss (an outcome goal), but rather nutrition process goals.
Nutrition process goals for athletes living in the Northeast… Most of you are still in some type of base phase or preparatory phase of training. As athletes, many of us fall into a routine of overusing gels, bars and sports nutrition products. However, during this time of year we should all focus on reducing use of these and rather focus on proper hydration techniques by using water and some electrolyte drinks. As a snack alternative on rides and post runs/swims think of eating a banana or an apple. (As time and intensity change during the season, so should nutrition.)
A second nutrition process goal could be as simple as maintaining a stable blood sugar throughout the day to avoid cravings and the afternoon crash. It is as easy as how we combine the foods we eat. Specifically protein, healthy fat and fiber rich foods should be the focus and can be easily tracked function available to trained athletes on Training Peaks for athlete self entry). Simply write down the lean proteins, healthy fats and high fiber foods that you enjoy, then, be sure to eat them together during meals and snacks to control your blood sugar level. It is that simple.
Train smart.
*Info pulled from articles by Bob Seebohar, 2008 Olympic Triathlon Sport Dietitician.
