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National Ski Club News: Council/Club

Your Optimum Diet For Skiing Sessions

Your Optimum Diet For Skiing Sessions

by Janie Jones

75% of Americans think that they have a healthy diet with the right balance of nutrients, and that’s good news if you’re a skier: it’s extremely important to eat well, not only to help maintain the energy levels you need, but also to repair muscles after exercise. Your diet should include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables – essential for vitamins and minerals. You should try to avoid ultra-processed foods and saturated fats, as these are very low in nutritional value. Instead go for lean protein choices, and try and limit the amount of stodgy carbs you consume, such as sliced bread – these will only weigh you down when you’re on the slopes.

Be careful with carbs

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans say that 45% of your daily intake of calories should come from carbohydrates. The best carbs that you can have in your diet are as unprocessed as possible. Forget the white bread, and instead go for legumes, pulses, oats, quinoa, brown rice, and 100% whole grains. If you’re buying packaged products, you should note that there is a difference between total carbs and net carbs (particularly important if you’re following a keto plan). Fiber and sugar are also forms of carbohydrates, so you will need to add their percentage figure to the carbohydrate figure shown on the labeling to get the true percentage in the food.

Lean proteins

Proteins are essential for helping to repair and maintain muscles. You should avoid processed options, however, and limit the amount of red meat you eat. Instead go for fish or chicken, which is lean and low-calorie. Almonds and walnuts are high in protein, and also make a great snack if you’re on the slopes for the day, giving you a healthy boost of energy that’s better for you than sugar. Cottage cheese, eggs and milk are also good sources of protein, but should be eaten in moderation. Seeds are a good option, however, as well as broccoli and lentils.

Breakfast like a king

If you’re skiing for the day, then you should make breakfast your best meal of the day. Go for slow-release energy foods like porridge, eggs, and plenty of fresh fruit. You should, however, avoid eating for a full, cooked breakfast. Sausages, bacon and pancakes might be filling, but they’re high in fat, and will make you feel sluggish on the slopes.

A healthy diet is essential when you’re skiing. You should try to eat a good balance of carbohydrates and protein, along with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.