Those who celebrate active living on National Sneaker Day May 12 by lacing up their sneakers and heading out for a walk, bike ride or jog should fuel up first.
Finding the right balance of foods will help you feel energetic and keep your body healthy. Grain products provide carbohydrate fuel, the kind that muscles like to use. They also provide fibre and B vitamins.
Vegetables and fruit also provide carbohydrate energy, and are loaded with fibre, vitamin C, beta-carotene and phytochemicals.
Registered dietitian Taralea Hergott says phytochemicals are naturally occurring chemicals found in foods associated with the prevention and treatment of cancer, cardiovascular disease and other ailments. Try to eat five to 10 servings daily.
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Protein, which is found in milk products, meat and alternatives, helps a body make repairs and build muscles. Milk products also provide a package of nutrients that build strong bones.
These include calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, vitamin A, magnesium and protein. Choose two to four servings of milk, yogurt and cheese a day.
Along with protein, meat and alternatives provide iron to help red blood cells transport oxygen throughout the body.
Choose two to three servings of meat and alternatives daily.
Water is the drink of champions. Drink eight to 10 cups of hydrating fluids daily, and more when you’re active. Fluids that hydrate include water, sports drinks, milk and juice.
