You Are What You Eat
Ever crave something specific after you surf? Do you have a few practices or theories around what you should consume before paddling out?
For most surfers it’s not something to consciously think about, the trial and error of nutrition and hydration over years of catching waves are second nature. That being said it is always good to remember the basics and if they are not rituals already, try to incorporate some better habits into your routine. Our health is in our hands when we choose what to eat for overall wellness and athletic performance, select wisely and your surfing and skills will improve.
It’s not a surprise if you are hungry after burning almost three-hundred calories an hour (depending on conditions and surfing) after a session in the water. It is crucial to refuel after. It is also annoying to cut your time in the water short when your stomach is growling, so finding what works and is the most nutritious will set you up for success in the water for this session and subsequent ones that follow.
Sometimes the waves are just that good you do not want to get out of the water. After about two hours (of any vigorous sport or physical activity) you may hit a wall and your energy depletes rapidly. Your body is signaling you must take a break and refuel. Sometimes you can continue using adrenaline but in general you are burning the carbohydrates your body can store to keep you going. Ideally the healthiest versions of carbohydrates are the ones to aim for, potatoes, rice, whole grains paired with lean proteins. You want to repair your muscles quickly and recover, which is easy with access to plentiful seafood out east, as well as chickpeas, yogurt and nuts.
Something to love about surfing is how healthy it feels to be in the water and having fun while being active. Many do not care to focus on the bacteria in the water that infiltrates our system, making surfing much more prone to bacteria that resists antibiotics. Consuming ginger, garlic, turmeric, fresh berries, and fruits and vegetables in general for their anti-inflammatory properties helps keep fight illness and infections from the water.
There could be a nutritious reason you are craving fish tacos after a session, not because its fits a cliché but likely your body is craving salt. The entire time you are paddling and playing in the water you are losing salts and minerals that need to be replaced. Since water is not enough, be sure to have some electrolytes in the most natural form possible. Water is essential to consume to keep you healthy, repair your muscles, hydrate your skin, and to avoid headaches, sluggishness, muscle cramps to name a few. Celery, watermelon, cucumber and other snacks with an elevated water content are always helpful. While you may already eat intuitively, a little mindfulness goes a long way in choosing what you devour and how you hydrate. You are what you eat. Happy Surfing!
