Chances are, you know another athlete who has tried the latest and greatest fad diet and gotten amazing results. But how do you know if that diet is the best for you? And how do you know if those metrics are going to be sustainable throughout the season?
From Paleo, to Keto, to low fat, to Whole 30 , to Intermittent Fasting- there are a lot of differing opinions out there. So how do you know which one is the best for your sport and your own specific needs?
Spoiler alert: there isn’t one.
Every one of these diets contain foundational nutrition elements that are key to a healthy, balanced lifestyle that is maintainable for the long haul. These aspects are what will be key to help you reach your goals. From there your diet should be what fits you, not what fits the rules of a specific diet plan.
Those key elements are:
- Emphasizing whole foods over heavily processed foods
- Consuming enough quality protein
- Eating lots of vegetables in a variety of colors
- Prioritizing high nutrient density
- Eating slowly, enjoying your food until satisfied
- Minimizing high sugar, processed foods
Everything else about the diet is just up to preference and performance. Whether you want to eat higher fat lower carb, eat only vegetables and no meat, or the complete opposite is up to you. As long as you are getting in the key nutrients and are monitoring what type/amount of fuel helps you perform the best you will have success.
Want advice coming up with your specific nutritional plan to reach those goals? Sign up for a quick free call below and we’ll help you out!
