Foods all Soccer Players Should Eat
All players should have an equal balance of nutrition in
order to stay healthy on and off the field. If you read my previous blog, you’d
know that exercise is a critical component to keeping your body in shape. Ace
McCloud, the author of “Soccer Strategies” says that “In addition to the
exercise that you should be doing and the drills you need to practice, you need
proper nutrition to keep the body going” (McCloud 10). Staying on top of your nutrition
will allow you to become a better soccer player because they carry the
necessary nutrients that will help you stay energized throughout the entire
90-minute game.
Turkey and Chicken
Turkey and chicken are lean sources of meat that will help
you get the protein that is necessary for an athlete. These are great ways to
acquire protein without all the added calories and fat that other food groups
have.
Complex Carbs
Complex carbs include many different grains such as cereals,
potatoes, pastas, bread, and rice. Eating these carbs in their whole wheat or
whole grain forms is when you’ll get your best results. Loading up on carbs
before a game or practice can help you play longer and have the energy you need
to perform at a high level.
Milk
Drinking milk a few times a say is a good way to get a lot
of nutrients into a meal. Choosing a low fat or skim variety will be giving
your body lots of great nutrients, such a calcium, as well as avoiding the
extra fat.
It is very important to maintain a healthy diet while being
an athlete. Eating these three basic foods will help to keep your energy
throughout the entire game. I believe that a healthy lifestyle will allow you
to improve and grow into a better player and will allow you to do more on the
field.
What is your go-to meal before an important game? Do you
think it helps you play better?
McCloud, Ace. Soccer: Soccer Strategies: The Top
100 Best Ways to Improve Your Soccer Game. Charleston,
SC: CreateSpace, 2015. Print.
