Eat Like an Athlete: Fuel Your Body Right

Some days, you feel unstoppable. Other days? You’re dragging. It’s not just sleep or training—it’s what you eat.

You don’t need to be a pro to eat like one. Whether you're dancing, running, or just trying to feel strong, food = fuel.

Food Isn’t Just Calories—It’s Energy

Think of your body like a car. No fuel = no go. Here’s what powers you:

  • Carbs = Quick energy
    Bread, rice, fruit, pasta, oats

  • Protein = Muscle repair
    Chicken, tofu, eggs, yogurt

  • Fats = Long-lasting energy
    Avocados, nuts, olive oil, salmon

Eating a good mix before and after workouts helps your body and your brain.

Diagram showing a meal before your workout (Greek yogurt with berries and granola); and a meal for after your workout (chicken, rice, and vegetables)

Before a Workout: Eat to Avoid the Crash

Working out on empty = low energy, dizziness, and poor focus.

Eat carbs + a little protein:

1–3 hours before:

  • Toast + peanut butter

  • Chicken & rice

  • Eggs + avocado toast

  • Banana + Greek yogurt

30 minutes before:

  • Apple + almonds

  • Granola bar

  • Smoothie with fruit + protein

Skipping food? Not it. You’ll feel it later.

Hydration = Performance

Water isn’t just “nice to have.” It affects your focus, energy, and recovery.

  • Short workouts (<1 hr): Water is enough

  • Long/intense workouts: Add electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium)

Good options:

  • Water (always)

  • Coconut water (natural electrolytes)

  • Sports drinks (helpful, but check sugar)

After a Workout: Rebuild & Recover

Feeling sore? That’s your body rebuilding muscle. Help it out with food—within 30–60 minutes.

Post-workout picks:

  • Eggs + toast

  • Smoothie (milk + banana + PB)

  • Salmon + quinoa + veggies

  • Cheese + whole grain crackers

Under-Eating = Underperforming

Working out a lot but eating too little? Your body will start to struggle.

Warning signs:

  • Always tired

  • Sore or injured often

  • Dizziness

  • Irregular/missing periods (major red flag!)

Skipping meals doesn’t help—it slows you down.

Bottom Line

Your body does a lot—fuel it like it matters.
Eat well = move better, feel better, recover faster.

Food isn’t just calories. It’s power. Eat like an athlete, live like one.

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