Food is fuel for our bodies - What we consume determines our mental and physical abilities. Golfers who eat healthy can achieve a competitive edge and lower their scores. It is vital for athletes to maintain peak athletic performance to consume a well-balanced diet.
Are there any foods and drinks you should consume before and after playing golf?
Well...that depends.
For those who aren't too serious about their games or just trying to have a fun night, eat and drink what they want. Consume the salty foods, junk foods, and sweet snacks you see at the golf course.
Meanwhile, if you are interested in eating healthily and using food for energy, and if you wish to stay focused and maintain energy levels, then continue reading.
1. For Breakfast - Oats, Boiled Eggs and Fruit
In order to feel full and get energy, we need carbohydrates and protein - for that you can have Oats, 2 hard boiled eggs and a fruit. Eat your breakfast at least two hours before your tee time so your body has time to digest it.
2. Fresh Whole Fruits
Fruits are rich in dietary fiber and potassium, two important nutrients. You can't go wrong with these. For example you can have Bananas, Oranges, Apples etc.
3. Protein Shakes
You can stay energized on the course with protein shakes, which are convenient and fast-acting. For golfers, the best protein shakes are the ones with vegetable and fruit extracts, however, normal protein shakes works fine for most of the people.
4. Protein Bars
These can be tricky - while many are healthy, others aren't because they are too sugary and have too many additives. It's best to eat whole foods such as those mentioned above.
5. Peanut Butter and Sandwiches
The move to make like Tiger Woods is to eat like him. Sandwiches made with peanut butter contain high amounts of protein and carbs. Put on some jelly and you're good to go. The only problem with peanut butter sandwiches is that they lack fiber. So, you might feel hungry and burn up fast on the course.
6. Beef Jerky
Adding beef jerky to the list is also a great option. A grass-fed, locally grown jerky is what we recommend for golfers. The beef is both healthier and cleaner because of this. Although consumers may prefer big corporate brands because they're cheaper and easier to find, they're far from healthy.
7. Almonds
Take almonds with you if you're going to eat like Phil Mickelson. For a round, they're a good, healthy alternative. Moreover, almonds are best when combined with other nuts and fruits.
8. Hot Dogs
The convenience of hot dogs makes them a great choice. You will stay full until you reach the 19th hole with quick and easy food. At the halfway house, they're especially tempting. You should have them in moderation, but not excessively.
9. Chicken Roll
The bacon sandwich at the halfway house is hard to resist. It's easier to digest chicken because it is a less processed protein than bacon. You don't have to worry about getting a sugar spike and crash from white bread because whole grain rolls contain quality carbohydrates.
10. Water
The one vital nutrient for all golfers, but is not always seen as a snack. Drink water. If you find it hard to switch on, try to plan drinks at every even tee or at least on holes 4, 8, 12 and 16.