Fuel your desire to achieve your best

REACHING your potential never comes without a cost.

Unfortunately, most athletes experience several highs and lows before they perfect the art of fuelling their bodies with adequate nutrition.

The close association between the brain and athletic performance highlights the importance of fuelling the body with nutrient-dense food.

An energy deficit is going to reduce an athlete’s physical performance and mood.

In addition, this will reduce the body’s ability to repair damaged muscles and recover from training and competition.

Low energy availability has also been associated with the risk of muscle cramping.

Our brain and body relies on an energy source derived from carbohydrate, commonly known as glucose.

With low availability of glucose reaching the brain, an athlete may experience an early onset of fatigue, poor decision making, headaches and dizziness.

A well-rounded, tailored diet, incorporating regular meals containing carbohydrates will give athletes a greater chance at reaching their full potential and reducing the risk of the onset of fatigue.

There is more to it than just a well-rounded diet, with hydration status playing a crucial role in the cognitive function of an athlete.

It is essential to ensure athletes are well hydrated as 2-3 per cent dehydration can impair performance and mood.

Severe dehydration can have serious performance and health consequences associated with it.

There are often several factors that have the potential of providing athletes with that extra push to get them over the line – one of these factors is caffeine.

With nutrition being very individualised, caffeine may be of benefit to athletes depending on their tolerance.

Caffeine has the ability to reduce the rate of perceived exertion or effort, and mental performance during tough and difficult moments.