FARMSTRONG
Farmstrong Ambassador Sam Whitelock says eating a nutritious and well-balanced diet will make a big difference to your mental and physical wellbeing during the busy times on the farm.
Eat well, farm well Whether you’re farming or playing sport, having the right ‘fuel in the tank’ gives you the energy to perform at your best, says Farmstrong ambassador Sam Whitelock
P
rofessional sport has taught me that a nutritious, wellbalanced diet means you’ll feel fitter, stronger and enjoy improved energy levels. You’ll boost your immune system and stay healthier and you’ll also think more clearly and handle stress better,” Farmstrong ambassador Sam Whitelock says. Farmstrong has partnered with Wairarapa-based nutrition expert Sarah Percy of Tea Retreats. She works extensively with farming families to provide advice on how to eat well, boost energy levels and stay healthy on the farm. Here are her top tips. You can find more quick and easy recipe ideas and seasonal meal plans at www.tea-retreats. co.nz
to sacrifice regular meals. But running on an empty tank is really counterproductive. If you find yourself coming in after a hard day and feeling irritable and with a short fuse, it may be ‘hanger’ (angry hunger) caused by low blood sugars,” Sarah says. “For a physically demanding job like farming, try and eat three meals and two lots of snacks a day. For early morning milkers, great pre-breakfast snack options include smoothies, eggs, fruit, cereal, porridge, grainy toast with peanut butter. If you’re busy, prepare snacks the night before.”
“
50
Sarah Percy Don’t work on an empty tank “Sometimes when we are busy on the farm and pressed for time, it is easy
Choose fresh, unprocessed food “The foods you choose will have a big impact on how you feel. The key to eating well is choosing fresh, wholefoods rather than packaged and processed options.
DAIRY FARMER
February 2021
