An exciting new section is being introduced for the overall health and well-being of student-athletes. Look for bi-weekly Recipes, a go green tip of the month, and an article dealing with health issues for student-athletes; ranging from nutrition, training, injuries, rehabilitation, and general health. Also, please feel free to ask questions and we will try our best to get back to you!
The Paleo Diet: What is it and is it right for you?
The Paleo diet is based on the principles that we should eat as our ancestors from the Paleolithic era did. By eating in this manner--vegetables, lean meats, seafood, nuts, and fruit—our health should be much better. The rise in weight gain, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other health problems is believed to be linked with refined sugars and grains, saturated and trans fats, low-glycemic carbohydrates, and processed foods.
As student-athletes you may be thinking about those high energy loaded carbohydrates. Yes, this diet is less than the recommended 65% carbohydrate intake, but in fact, the unlimited access to vegetables and fruit provides foods that are high in beneficial nutrients such as soluble fiber, antioxidant vitamins, phytochemicals, omega-3 and monosaturated fats, and low-glycemic carbohydrates. It provides you with nutrients that should sustain your energy and help perform at your peak. So how does it work? Well, most experts say stick to the parameters of the grocery store buying lean meats, fish, eggs, vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Processed foods and any food with added sugars are restricted. With every meal you are suppose to have a protein source (your meats), a carbohydrate (fruits and/or vegetables), and a fat source (olive oil, nuts, almond butter). The nutrient quality of this type of eating is high-density food that should keep you feeling full longer. But is this life style change for you?
Adapting to a new eating style may be difficult and every body responds differently. This diet may be designed to promote peak human bodily performance, but that may not be the case for you. In fact, it has been found that during the first few weeks on the paleo you may feel weak because it takes the body some time to adjust to the new energy source of production. Some find that slowly easing into this diet works best. Slowly cutting out the grains (rice, pasta, cereal) and refined sugars has helped some prepare themselves and the body for the new changes. There are always exceptions to eating and its important to remember to eat in moderation and balance. Make sure you feed your body enough calories and nutrients to be able perform at your peak. Do the research and ask questions before making drastic changes. Find the one the rights for you and stick to it!
Information from Loren Cordain, Ph.D., the world’s leading expert on Paleolithic Diets.
Robb Wolf, former research biochemist specializing in lipid metabolism.
Trisha Gibbons at trishagibbons2@gmail.com
Recipe of the week:
Quick and easy pizza
1 Pita bread
1-2 tbs of honey mustard, or pizza/spaghetti sauce, or bbq
Precooked chicken
Tomatoes
Green and red peppers
Mozzarella Cheese
Directions:
1.Preheat oven (toaster oven) to 350°F
2. Add desired sauce to pita
3. Add chicken (or desired meats), tomatoes, red and green peppers (any toppings of your liking) and sprinkle on cheese.
3. Place in oven and cook till cheese is melted or place in microwave.
Have fun and create an easy and healthy pizza. Put what you want, but for a healthier choice stay with lean meats and non-cream sauces.
