Nutrition                                              

Eating the right kind of foods can help you get the most from your training programme as well as allowing you to maintain a healthy weight.

Sarah Keogh - Dietitian

Dietitian Sarah Keogh (MSc, BSc, MINDI) regularly appears in the media, commenting on nutrition and health and runs a runs a private practice at the well-known Albany Clinic in Dublin as well as a food and nutrition consultancy. Here, she gives us some helpful tips on eating right during your training programme.

 

Choose the right foods

A good pre-workout meal should have carbohydrates, protein and a little fat. Carbohydrates are the best source of energy for moderate of high intensity exercise. Protein is important for rebuilding and repairing muscle tissue and fats help your body absorb vitamins, lubricate your joints and produce energy. 

Don't exercise on an empty stomach

You will get more out of your exercise session by having the right fuel on board. You won't want a heavy meal before a workout, but a balanced light meal will provide what your body needs for energy and to build and tone muscles. 

Eat after you exercise

Eating after your workout is as important as fueling it beforehand. A small meal of protein and carbs within two hours of your exercise session will give your body what it needs to build and repair muscles and the blood vessels that supply them. 

Drink plenty of fluids

Dehydration can be a serious problem, especially if you exercise in hot weather. Drinking fluids before, during and after exercise will help you maintain adequate hydration levels.