Its 2024 and the idea of actually resting is making its way to the front of people's minds!
Previously we had embraced the all-or-nothing “grind’ culture, where we were to somehow fit in working 40+ hour weeks, social events, kids pick up, cooking for the family, drinking enough water, eating enough food and the hustle and bustle of general life.. we now know more about the benefits of rest and recovery and should start to prioritise those just as much as ‘working hard’.
Nutrition and Recovery go hand in hand, like best mates!
Nutrition is the process of taking in food and converting it into energy and other vital nutrients required for life.
Recovery is restoring the body to a state of homeostasis (self-regulating process by which an organism tends to maintain stability while adjusting to conditions that are best for its survival).
What you eat can drastically impact your recovery process.
As we know, Protein is optimal for muscle repair and growth. Protein is what your body uses to repair your muscle and create stronger foundations for strength, It helps build and retain lean muscle mass and aid with satiety.
Carbohydrates are the bodies main source of fuel. Carbohydrates enter the body and turn into glycogen (fuel for our body). Eating the correct amount of carbohydrates is essential for energy expenditure and energy availability. (Decrease fatigue, injury probability and allow the body to adequately recover).
Fats are essential in any diet - A common misconception is that eating fats will make you fat… spoiler!! The only way you will gain weight is if you are eating in a caloric surplus (nothing to do with the individual macronutrient!)
Fats are essential for healthy hormones and general bone health. They even assist with the absorption of certain vitamins!
Micronutrients are the vitamins and minerals we consume from foods and supplements. The body needs micronutrients for healthy function of the nervous system, gut and organs. Studies have shown the more diverse the microbiomes are in our gut, the ‘better’ overall gut health seems to be. Diversity comes from eating a broad range of plants. So eat your vegetables!
Interestingly too, this study showed that people who were active (athletes, general population who exercised frequently) seemed to have a more diverse microbiome than those who did not exercise regularly.
Make sure to...
Eat enough protein – it will help you to recover and build more lean muscle mass.
Eat Carbs – They are your bodies main source of energy, under eating can cause fatigue, injury and medical issues,
Eating Fats don't directly make you fat – We need fats for good bone health and even assist with the absorption of some minerals/vitamins.
If you are feeling run-down, tired, fatigued – Take a break. Listen to your body.
Rest and Recovery is still productive!
Jules,
Founder, Accredited Sports Nutritionist.
JVIA
@jvia_nutrition