What Is Sports Nutrition?

Supplementing a well-balanced diet will help you fuel optimal performance. The sports nutrition category is broad, ranging from protein powders and ready to drink shakes to energy bars, vitamins, and minerals. Whether training or competing, they can help you achieve your goals more quickly.

Protein contains amino acids which serve as the building blocks of muscle tissue. Muscle is actually broken down during your workout. Your body uses protein to get to work repairing these torn muscle fibres so they rebuild bigger and stronger.

There are many different types of protein powders available. Fast-acting whey protein is used before and/or after training because it’s digested rapidly and is packed with Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) for muscle recovery. In contrast, a slowly digested casein protein is ideal at night when the majority of muscle rebuilding happens.

See our protein guide here for more information.

Where proteins provide muscle rebuilding support, carbohydrates provide the energy. Carbs are your body’s preferred power source and are essential for fuelling both physical and mental effort. Make carbs work for you by choosing complex carbs packed with nutrients and dietary fibre for sustained energy. Whey protein shakes are a great source of carbs. Taken post-workout, they replenish energy reserves, along with providing vital proteins for muscle recovery and rebuilding.

Will Fats Make Me Fat?

Fat is often viewed as the enemy to many dieters and fitness enthusiasts, but it’s a vital component of a healthy diet. Essential fatty acids are called ‘essential’ because your body can’t produce them. They can only be taken in through diet. The trick is to avoid ‘bad’ saturated and trans fats, focusing instead on the ‘good’ polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats.

Vits and mins, known collectively as micronutrients, help your body metabolise protein, carbohydrates and fat, as well as optimising your physical and mental performance. If you’re training hard, your body will have greater micronutrient needs and it’s not always possible to source these solely from your diet.

ON was built on a commitment to excellence. Our award winning shakes always mix up effortlessly, taste delicious and deliver exceptional quality. You’re working hard to accomplish impressive goals so the least we can do is ensure we support you with superior quality sports nutrition.

Find out more at: www.onacademy.co.uk