Fuelling Fitness

BC Local News – March 12, 2009

How do we fuel our bodies for an active lifestyle? Let’s bust some myths that will help you eat like a champion.

Myth: I need a special diet and sports supplements if I am exercising regularly.
Reality: Focus instead on tasty and healthy food. Following Canada’s Food Guide will ensure that you get the protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals you need for a moderate or active lifestyle.

Here are some tips:

  • Veggies and fruit, grain products, and milk and alternatives provide carbohydrates to fuel active muscles.
  • Milk and alternatives and meat and alternatives provide high quality protein to build and repair muscles.
  • Make a satisfying and nutritious shake at home by blending yogurt, milk or fortified soy beverage and some frozen fruit. This is a good source of carbohydrates, protein, calcium and vitamins.

Myth: You need to drink as much water as you can before, during, and after exercise in order to perform your best.
Reality: Think cups, not gallons! We all need water, but don’t overdo it. Here’s a game plan:

  • Stay hydrated day to day.
  • During exercise keep your water handy and sip it during your workout.
  • After exercise, a regular meal or snack and a beverage will help to replace what you have lost in sweat. Chocolate milk has proven to be particularly effective post-exercise since it provides protein, carbs, sodium, potassium and fluid.

Myth: Downing an energy drink is the best way to keep your energy levels up for a workout.
Reality: Healthy eating and enough sleep are the real keys to long-lasting energy to get you through your day and workout. Having a small meal or healthy snack a couple of hours before your workout can give you a real boost. Energy drinks are not sports drinks. The caffeine in energy drinks is usually more than double that in soft drinks. The safety of most energy drinks has not been evaluated by Health Canada. It is wise not to drink excessive amounts of any energy drink or to mix them with alcohol.

Fact: The best source for nutrition information is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.