Winter Recovery Foods
To chase away chills:
- replenish depleted glycogen stores
- rehydrate your body
- enjoy warm carbohydrates with a little protein (oatmeal with nuts, lentil soup, chili)
The warm food, added to the thermogenic effect of eating, contributes to rapid recovery. In comparison, eating cold foods and frozen fluids can chill your body. Save the slushie for summer workouts. In winter, you want warm foods to fuel your workouts. Bring out the mulled cider or thermos of soup!
Winter Weight Gain
Many athletes bemoan winter weight gain. Some eat too much because they are bored and less active. Others experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and the change of seasons has a marked affect on their mood. Changes in brain chemicals increase carbohydrate cravings and the desire to eat more. The temptations of winter holiday foods can also contribute to weight gain.
To limit winter weight gain, stay active. Exercise helps manage health, weight, and the winter blues. The tricks are to invest in proper clothing, fuel well, and prevent dehydration so you can stay warm and enjoy winter's outdoor wonderland.
Eat right and perform better. Find a nutrition plan for you.