Before Working Out Eat Like An Athelete

Tone up your eating habits

A new Ipsos Reid/Dietitians of Canada survey reveals that although 68% of Canadians say they have changed their eating habits in the last year to improve their fitness level, 85% of Canadians admit their eating habits could use “some improvement”.

Thida Ith, registered dietitian and national spokesperson for Nutrition Month says, “The results of the new Ipsos Reid survey show that Canadians are getting the message that healthy eating and physical activity go hand-in-hand. Still, there is much work to
be done.”

Dietitians will tell you it’s easy to make better food choices to improve fitness, including these top three tips:

1. Forget muscle-building or weight-loss supplements; fuel your active lifestyle with real food from Canada’s Food Guide. Before exercise, fuel your body with a small meal that is mostly carbohydrate with some protein and a little fat. A good example is a peanut butter sandwich on whole grain bread with a banana and a glass of water.

2. Stay hydrated throughout the day; drink water before, during and after your workout. Water is not the only beverage, however, that provides hydration—beverages like milk, soy drinks, and 100% juice also count. Many foods provide some fluid, especially juicy fruits like watermelon, oranges and grapes.

3. Realize that what and when you eat and drink can help you get the most from your workout. After exercise, food and fluids will help your body recover. Try a handful of almonds, a glass of chocolate milk, a small bowl of whole grain cereal with milk or a whole-grain pita with hummus.

Source: www.dietitians.ca/eatwell

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Article published in Your Workplace issue 11-4