What Should Athletes Eat Before a Game?

Basics

Carbohydrates are the foods that fuel muscles. This is the food group that is utilized when the large muscles of the body are involved in physical activity. Proteins and fats are essential to the physical development of our young athletes, but provide no direct energy for exercise or athletics.

Before the Big Game

When contemplating what to eat before the game, your meal or should mainly consist of carbohydrates. The best time to eat a pre-game or pre-practice meal should be 1-3 hours before competition depending on how much the athlete eats. A bagel or muffin with some peanut butter and jelly about 1-3 hours before practice will get most athletes through practices and games.  Avoid a large amount of high fat and protein snacks in the hours before competition- it won’t provide much energy and may actually make the athlete feel tired.A small amount of protein or fat (such as peanut butter)

is OK as it can also keep the athlete from getting hungry during the game .Other good choices before the big game would be cereals, pasta or rice without heavy sauces, fruit and yogurt, granola, honey, jams or jellies on bread or muffins. Give all these foods at least a good hour to digest. Popcorn and pretzels are also good choices as they are high in carbohydrates and have some added salt.

                    Double-Header?

What about tournaments and multiple games or competitions on the same day? Most of what is offered at concession stands is pretty high in protein and fat such as hot dogs, candy, and nachos. Good choices for between games are pretzels, popcorn, and sports drinks. If youhave a favorite snack such as bagels or PB&J, then just bring some along.

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