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A graphic explains that the majority of a smoothie should be split into carbs and protein, like milk and yogurt, and fruits and vegetables. The extras like seeds, nut butters, honey spices and oats fill in the small top portion and are optional.

Coaches Guide to Nutrition: Snack on a Smoothie

A smoothie is a perfect pre- or post-exercise snack.

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Making a smoothie can be an easy way to get a serving of dairy, fruit and vegetables. Add milk, yogurt, berries, bananas, avocado, spinach, and kale to the blender and let the magic happen.

Along with protein and carbohydrates, it will provide vitamins, minerals and fiber.    

Snacking can be detrimental when done out of boredom or in place of regular, balanced meals. But, for an athlete, healthy snacks can aid performance and recovery.

Having a snack in the hour or two before practice and in the “window of opportunity” following practice can help maintain energy levels and ensure proper recovery.

Snacks are important to maintain energy between meals, before exercise and after workouts. Snacks before and after exercise help performance as well as aid optimal recovery.

Information above is excerpted from UDIM’s A Coach’s Guide to Nutrition.

This graphic shows a variety of healthy fast-food options for student-athletes, including a baked chicken sandwich, burrito bowl, salad, apple slices, a bean burrito and milk.

Coach's Guide to Nutrition: Fueling with Fast Food

Life is busy, and sometimes getting food fast is the only option.

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Fueling up with fast food can provide the proper nutrition to students when they are in a pinch.

Learning to identify more nutritious foods on restaurant menus will help provide the macronutrients students need in a meal. 

Fast food for breakfast, lunch, or dinner can be part of a balanced diet.

Encourage students to keep the macros in mind when choosing from the menu. Giving students tips, such as choosing baked or grilled chicken, fresh fruit or salads, and milk as a beverage can make it easier for athletes to choose foods that will nourish their bodies.      

Information above is excerpted from UDIM’s A Coach’s Guide to Nutrition.