Coach's Guide to Nutrition: Window of Opportunity
May 14, 2024
The 30 minutes following exercise, often referred to as the window of opportunity, is the best time to begin to refuel, rebuild and repair muscles.
Carbs plus protein in this window can help your students refuel and be ready to attack their next workout.
After an exercise session or game, muscles are depleted of glycogen, their primary energy source, and are in need of recovery from the stress of training. A small snack is all that is needed in this “window of opportunity.”
The focus should be on carbohydrates with some protein; the ideal snack would have more carbs than protein. Chocolate milk has both carbs and protein, along with electrolytes and fluids to rehydrate. Liquids are also more easily absorbed by the body to help refueling happen more quickly. Other refueling options could include a smoothie, yogurt and granola, or a cheese stick with fruit.
Within 2-3 hours, have a full meal to continue recovery.
Information above is excerpted from UDIM’s A Coach’s Guide to Nutrition.
Coaches Guide to Nutrition: Supplements
December 10, 2024
Did you know that dietary supplements are not regulated by the government?
Encourage your athletes to utilize food as their first option rather than a supplement.
If your athlete decides to utilize supplements, encourage them to look for supplements with a “USP Verified,” “Informed Sport,” or “NSF Certified Sport” seal.
For athletes, it’s important to note that some supplements (or ingredients in supplements) are banned. This includes some energy drinks; encourage your athletes to utilize supplements with extreme caution.
Supplements are intended to supplement or add to the diet – not act as a substitute for food. Supplements can include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, probiotics or herbs.
Information above is excerpted from UDIM’s A Coach’s Guide to Nutrition.