Sports Nutrition

Poor nutrition in sports can be a limiting factor in athletic performance by limiting the benefits of training and by reducing an athlete's ability to perform to his or her conditioned ability. Athletes who want a winning edge should get the right nutrition. One can make the most of his or her athletic talents and gain more strength, power and endurance with the right kind ofnutritio food and supplements.

Hydration in Sports Nutrition

Many athletes and sportsmen today are trying to find that wonder supplements that adds muscle mass or enhances physical performance. Many athletes are influenced by convincing advertisements or personal testimonials in muscle and fitness magazines that the misconception that ginseng, spirulina, amino acids, and lots of other nutritional "wonder drugs" will enhance performance. Such drugs are not good for sportsmen or for that matter, for anyone. They can only create more harm in the long run.

The right kind of nutrition for sports is based on few basic facts.

1. Eat a meal high in carbohydrates.

2. Take solid foods 3-4 hours before events, and liquids 2-3 hours before.

3. Choose easily digestible foods (i.e., not fried).

4. Avoid sugary foods/drinks within one hour of event.

5. Drink enough fluids to ensure hydration (i.e., 20 ounces of water 1-2 hours before exercise, and an additional 10-15 ounces within 15-30 minutes of event.)