Diet for Skiiers

When it comes to skiing, fuel is key. What you eat will directly affect your performance on the slopes. Whilst it is important to unwind and enjoy local cuisines, be sure to aim for a healthy diet that will help your body and mind to make the most of your skiing break.

The Importance of Breakfast

First things first, a healthy, balanced and substantial breakfast is a must before a hard day's skiing. An early morning means a fair few hours to lunch. Furthermore, lunch may be eaten later than you are accustomed to, particularly if you are taking skiing lessons. To give yourself plenty of stamina, opt for wholegrains that provide slow release energy. Wholegrain cereals and brown bread are good sources. Protein is also vital. Meat eaters should fill up on lean breakfast meats or salmon, whilst vegetarians should opt for nuts and yogurt. Fruit, too, is a good option. It will help to keep you hydrated as well as providing you with energy due to its fructose content. Fructose will keep you going for longer than processed sugars, so opt for bananas, apples, grapefruits and melons and avoid sugary cereals or pastries. A cup of coffee may help you wake you up in the morning, but avoid drinking too much as it may leave you feeling hydrated or weak later in the day.

What Sort of Foods Should I Be Eating?

As far as the rest of the day is concerned, try to continue as you began with well chosen, healthy and nutritious foods. In some resorts, particularly full-board hotels, choice may be minimal. Make the most of the choices available and always pick the most sensible options from a buffet. Be sure to fill up on carbohydrates, proteins and vegetables rather than desserts that offer little nutritional benefit and my leave you feeling sluggish the next day. Protein is particularly important after a day’s physical exertion. It will help to repair and protect your muscles. Chicken is a great protein rich meat to opt for at dinner.You might find it useful to keep a small bag of nuts or seeds in your pocket, for a quick, long-lasting and healthy energy fix.

Staying Hydrated

What you drink is perhaps even more important than what you eat when it comes to a skiing break. Staying hydrated is vital for maintaining your heath, keeping your energy levels high and allowing your body to give its all to the physical challenge of a day’s skiing. Aim to drink more than the recommended two litres per day, since you will be losing large amounts of water through sweating and respiration. Keeping up fluid levels is particularly important for those who like to have several alcoholic drinks in the evening. Be sure to have several glasses of water after returning from a night out and rehydrate at breakfast, too.

A Word on Overindulging

One of the benefits of travelling to a new place is sampling the local cuisine. Indeed, many skiers choose their holiday destination with food in mind. As well as providing you with a challenge, a skiing break is also about relaxation. Self-denial is not the name of the game here. Allow yourself to enjoy the culinary delights of the region but be careful not to overindulge. Moderation and portion control are key. A stuffed stomach is likely to cause indigestion, fatigue and a drop in energy levels, all of which spell disaster when it comes to hitting the slopes.

With a little forethought and self-control, it is possible to both enjoy the food on offer and use it to your advantage. A balanced diet, rich in protein and complex carbohydrates, is your ticket to an exhilarating day on the snow.