Preparing for an endurance event such as the Coast to Coast can put a significant strain on the body. A well planned diet is essential to complete the demanding training programme required and then to support optimal performance when competing.
A high energy diet is required, which should be based on general healthy eating guidelines: plenty of fruit, vegetables, low GI carbohydrates, lean meat, eggs and oily fish. Healthy energy sources include olive oil, avocado, nuts and seeds.
Homemade milkshakes can be used in between meals and are a great fuel for recovery after training sessions.
Andy is a full-time dietitian at Hawke’s Bay Hospital. He also has a private practice in conjunction with Bariatric Surgery at the Royston Centre in Hastings. He can be contacted at: andrewpickering.dietitian@gmail.com