Sports nutrition needs more than healthy choices

For athletes who train intensely, simply eating healthy foods like salads and avocados may not provide enough energy to support their performance. Carbohydrates, which are a primary source of energy, are often avoided despite being essential for endurance activities.

Misconceptions about energy intake

Roger Sans, a specialist in endurance sports and nutrition, warns that some athletes reduce their energy intake out of fear of gaining weight. While choosing healthy foods can be reassuring, it does not always align with the energy demands of their training.

Impact of restrictive diets

Sans explains that many athletes mistakenly reduce their food portions to avoid gaining weight. However, this can lead to a lack of energy, which harms both overall well-being and performance, not just race times. A diet that looks balanced may still fall short of meeting training needs.

Carbohydrate distrust affects performance

The issue extends beyond elite athletes. Many people who train regularly struggle to complete their sessions due to insufficient energy intake. A common mistake is focusing on food quality while neglecting the actual amount of energy consumed, often due to a distrust of carbohydrates, which are crucial for endurance.

Personal experience with energy needs

Roger Sans shares his own experience, recalling how he once believed he was performing well in athletics. However, a case of anemia forced him to take a four-month break from running, highlighting the importance of proper nutrition and energy intake for sustained performance.