We are facing unprecedented times, where most of us have had our lives changed in some form or another and now is not the time to be slacking off on your nutrition. If anything, ensuring that you are optimising your bodies’ ability to cope mentally and physically should be at the forefront of your mind. Given the increased time that many of us are now spending at home, it is also the optimal time to focus on some goals that may have been pushed to the side due to the demands of work/life.
What should I be eating?
Unfortunately, the items which seem to be jumping off the shelves due to the fact that they are long life (i.e. white flour and pasta), are not going to do you any good on the health front. As much as possible, continue to rely on wholesome food options. Antioxidants such as vitamin C (orange/red fruits/veg), E (nuts and vegetable oils) and A (eggs, and orange and yellow fruits/veg) play a role in immune health, and are best obtained in a food form. Probiotics found in yoghurt help to maintain a healthy gut, and studies show, may reduce the risk of upper respiratory infections, and improve mental health.
Should I be concerned about the safety of fresh fruits and vegetables?
Experts suggest that thoroughly washing your fruits/vegetables in soapy water is adequate to remove any germs. You can also utilise frozen fruits/vegetables, as they are nutritionally as good as fresh forms. Instead of opting for the long-life nutritionally poor options, aim to make big batches of meals with a stack of veggies, and pop them into the freezer.
Should I rely just on takeaway?
As tempting as it is, sitting at home eating comfort foods is not going to be the best option for you now. Not only are they energy dense, they are often not very good on the nutrient front. This is not to say that you cannot help local businesses/cafes, but just be mindful of what you are ordering. It is also important that you do not make every meal a takeaway option. Not only will you boost your nutrient intake through making your own foods, it may be a good time to explore new healthy recipe options. Further, you may find the process of cooking a therapeutic way to get your mind off stressful situations.
How can a Sports Dietitian help?
All Dietitians are trained in ensuring that individuals obtain all of the nutrients required for health and the prevention of disease, regardless of their eating preferences. Sports Dietitians often work in settings where maintaining the health and optimal functioning of the body is paramount for athletic success. If you need advice on whether your diet is optimally supporting your health, are currently ill and requiring nutrition input, or want to focus your time/energy on pursuing goals such as optimising performance, fat loss and/or muscle gain, then now is a good time to book in with our sports Dietitian.
Our Dietitian Rebekah is currently available via Zoom (with a 10% discount on stand-alone consults), or with a range of packages to suit your needs.
