Spicy Foods
When you're fueling up before an athletic event, try to stick to the blandest foods you can get your hands on. It sounds boring but it's important because seasoning and spices often negatively stimulate your digestion track. This may potentially lead to gas and bloating. The last thing you want when you're in the heat of an athletic competition is a gassy feeling.
Refined Sugar
If you've got a sweet tooth, step away from the sugary candy bar. Avoiding refined sugars ranks as one of the top five food strategies for athletes, according to the Richard Stockton College athletic training program. Not only do such sugars lead to potential health problems like obesity and diabetes but they're also processed rapidly by your body and don't net you the sustained energy supplies that you need while exercising.
Foods with Trans Fatty Acids
Fried and baked good that contain trans fatty acids, such as some kinds of potato chips or doughnuts, boost the levels of LDL cholesterol in your blood stream. This in turn can constrict your blood vessels and reduce your body's ability to circulate oxygen and energy when you're exercising. As every athlete knows, proper circulation and oxygenation is critical for maintaining performance and fighting muscle fatigue.
High Fiber Foods
While fiber-rich foods, such as beans and dark, leafy vegetables, are healthy for most meals, avoid eating them before you start exercising. The fiber can slow down your digestive system's performance and lead to constipation and related problems, such as nausea. When you're fueling up on your carbs to give your muscles the glycogen replenishment they need, choose low-fiber carb sources.
