Conscious Eating on the Sidelines

Everyone knows the best part about playing a sport and working out is the ability to eat, and I mean eat a lot. However, once you’re injured, especially for a long period of time, you might need to reconsider the endless bread sticks, late night snacking, a pasta overload.

Let’s not think of it as a "diet" because well, that word just sounds unappealing in itself. Instead, think of it as "conscious eating". Rather than eating whatever you want whenever you want, remain conscious of what you are putting in your body. Here are some meal and snack ideas to try out that won’t leave you hungry or unfulfilled.

Nut and Fruit Filled Breakfast

The best way to keep off the pounds is by eating a filling, healthy breakfast every morning. It provides your body with the energy it needs to kick start the morning. Plus, your body naturally burns off the calories throughout the day. Make yourself a bowl of oatmeal, but try to stay away from the brown sugar and butter. Instead, add some of your favorite trail mix and throw in some fresh fruit.

More than a Slice of Toast

This is definitely one of my favorite mid-day snacks or sometimes a quick breakfast. Grab a slice of whole grain toast. Spread on some delicious almond butter. Layer it with slices of banana. Finally, top it off with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Not only is this a healthy snack, but it curbs your cravings as well.

Salad and Smoothie Combos

My go-to for lunch has always been some type of salad, smoothie, or even both. With endless salad combinations including chicken, egg, veggies, nuts, and cheese, you’ll never get bored. Plus, partnering it with a homemade smoothie will always leave you satisfied.  

All About the White Meats

Even when you’re not working out, it is essential to maintain your daily intake of protein. However, try to stay away from red meat and greasy burgers. Instead, grill a lean piece of chicken for dinner with some quinoa and veggies. White meat, including fish, has much less fat and the protein will fill you up for the rest of the night.

Satisfy your Sweet Tooth

Let’s face it. Whether or not you are working out, you are going to have those nights where you crave something sweet and delicious. However, try to stay away from the heavy creams and flour based treats. Instead, have some dark chocolate and maybe try melting it over fruit. If you’re not a crazed chocolate lover like myself, go for fat-free frozen yogurt. There are tons of flavors, so you’ll be sure to find one you love.

When you practice and lift 3 to 4 hours a day, your daily caloric intake skyrockets. However, once you are sitting on the sidelines, it is important to monitor what you eat. Once again, do NOT think of it as dieting. Instead, just be mindful of what and how much you put into your body. After all, you want your body to be in the best condition for when you can get back on the field.