Competition day can affect athletes' diet, too. Here is how Martin Fréchette, Sport Dietitian for short track speed skating at Speed Skating Canada, advises his athletes to fill their plates for standard training days versus competition days. Why the difference? Protein is difficult to digest and the athletes are in need of a lot of energy, so a higher carb ratio is better.
Food is fuel for winter olympians. Depending on the sport, athletes require differing combinations of carbohydrates, proteins and vegetables - the three main nutritional components of a balanced, healthy diet.
Depending on the winter sport in question, athletes need to tailor their healthy eating plan to a specific carbohydrate or protein intake which will support their training. Whilst the cardiovascular demands of freestyle skiing may require more carbs to burn as fuel, luge competitors will be recommended fewer carbohydrates in order to maintain a quick and light start to their race.
What about those of us not competing in the winter olympics? By eating a balanced diet made up of the five major food groups (including grains and fruits alongside sources of protein), we can obtain the nutrients needed for a healthy lifestyle without going over our recommended calorie intake.