Video Transcript
Hi, my name is Tyler Carter, two-time Paralympic Alpine skier, and TrueSport Athlete. Today, I want to talk to you about nutrition, and there are three things I’d like you to know. One, to maximize your performance and recovery, food is needed to fuel your tank. So, plan to eat the right foods before, during, and after a competition. Two, being a smart consumer means shopping the perimeter of the grocery store first and knowing how to interpret nutrition labels. Three, the best fuel for the body comes in the form of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. These all provide the body with energy and repair muscles.
My days are jam packed with activity, and I know that I would not make it through my workouts without eating enough to support my energy levels. I start my day with a solid breakfast of eggs, oatmeal, and yogurt. I have several snacks throughout the day, and eat a lunch, usually made up of a spinach salad, rice, and salmon. Then, finish my day with a well-rounded dinner. Carbohydrates are needed for energy and fuel for the body while proteins are needed for muscle repair. Fats help assist the body in carrying vitamins and make up for the remainder of calories needed. All these fuels work together when consuming a well-balanced diet. The one tip I would give to all athletes is to learn the art of balancing the food choices they’re making.
For example, I am a big lover of ice cream. I know if I started my day with a giant bowl of ice cream, which sounds like a dream come true, I wouldn’t have very much long-term energy to get through my intense workouts. So instead, I have learned to fuel my body with healthy nutrient dense foods throughout the day, and to treat myself with the less nutritious foods that I love, like ice cream, in moderation. Treating myself doesn’t mean eating the entire tub of ice cream in one sitting. Instead, it’s balancing the amount of ice cream I allow myself to have, so I can keep my body properly fueled and keep my craving satisfied. Remember, proper nutrition combined with adequate rest provides the best remedy for post-workout recovery. True Sport athletes understand that nutrition is key to maximizing performance. Care for your body. Stay fueled. I’ll see you on the slopes.
