What should a healthy soccer player eat and avoid eating?
AVOID :
Soccer Players should try to AVOID foods that have high fat content or high in calories because these slow down the digestion process. Some foods that are high in fat or calories are: butter, margarine, mayonnaise, nuts, seeds, salad dressings, cream cheese, fried foods, sauces, gravies.
Also, It is adequate to have some protein and fat but not too much. Soccer players should limit their intake on meat, poultry, cheese, nuts, and seeds.
Soccer players should bring and drink plenty of water before, during, and after practices and games.
For pre-game meals, make sure the athletes eat at least 2-3 hours before practice or game. This allows for good absorption.
Here is a list of foods that will benefit a Soccer Player
- Granola bars – Apples – Bananas – Apricots – Raisins – Oatmeal-raisin cookies – Raw Vegetables – Fruit snacks
Here is a list of foods that are high in carbohydrates, that they will need to replace as they lose a lot of Carbs during a regular soccer game:
- Coconut Water
- Water
- Sports Drinks
BREADS
- Pasta
- Granola Bars
- Bagels
- English Muffins
- Rice
- Oatmeal
VEGETABLES
- Broccoli
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Peas
- Beans
- Cauliflower
- Green Peppers
FRUITS
- Bananas
- Apples
- Raisins
- Oranges
- Kiwi
- Grapefruit