from crop to consumption
HEALTHY SPORT, HEALTHY NUTRITION
An introduction to healthy sports nutrition, with special reports on healthy eating at sporting events and the life of an athlete, plus a review of healthy foods and a selection of news items, followed by company profiles.
Special report on sustainable and healthy eating at sporting events
With extensive research highlighting the true impact food can have on a person’s wellbeing and health (and the sustainable strain that can be caused by making the wrong decision), many sports centres are choosing to promote healthier, greener options at their events. Imogen Ward explored the latest developments from the world of sport to find out exactly how this is being achieved.
ASthe saying goes, ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’, and the world of sport is wising up to this as it looks to transform its offering.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for all sports venues to take action and encourage healthier eating throughout their venues. WHO believes that the immense reach of sports events can have a positive impact on the nutrition and health behaviour of a global audience.
In 2022, WHO collaborated with the Ministry of Public Health, Qatar and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) to encourage a healthier offering during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Special report on sustainable and healthy eating at sporting events
As a result of this pivotal partnership, more than 30% of the menu items served at the event had a healthy nutritional profile that aligned with WHO’s guidelines.
Eager to take this even further, in 2024, the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) took a leap in the right direction with the implementation of its new Healthy and Sustainable Catering Guidelines.
A new offering
Armed with a keen understanding of the impact that diet can have on mental and physical wellbeing, UEFA published a new resource to help event organisers meet the growing demand for a healthier more sustainable catering service.
Launched as part of the association’s contribution to Zero Waste Week, the policy sets an example for other organisers within the football community. The guidelines are designed to help vendors stay ahead of the curve, respond to consumer demands, provide a varied diet, reduce cost and waste, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Long gone are the days of hot dogs and donuts; now, UEFA recommends using local, varied and biodiverse ingredients
that align with the seasonality of produce to reduce transportation emissions and promote a more nutritional base.
Also on the menu are recommendations for wholegrain-based products, potatobased carbohydrates and at least one pulse-based dish.
Anyone planning to have their food stand featured at one of UEFA’s events ought to follow the Harvard’s Healthy Eating Plate theory, which suggests that all plates should feature 25% carbohydrates, 25% proteins, and 50% fruit and veg. Not only does this variety help prevent malnutrition in consumers, but it is also helps reduce the overall environmental impact of the dish without losing its essence. In fact, according to the guidelines, by choosing lentil soup over beef lasagna, consumers can look to cut out almost 4kg of CO2, while benefiting from a significant reduction in saturated fats.
Portion sizes were also accounted for as the association sought to encourage vendors to offer a balanced menu containing at least 150g of fruit, 200g of vegetables and 80g of whole grains. And with vegetables still in the hot seat, this ever-popular food staple is being highlighted as a great
Harvard’s Healthy Eating Plate Theory
alternative to fattier, more carbon intensive meat choices.
Of course, this is not the first time that the topic of food consumption has come up in the world of sport. Formula One world Championship Limited recently launched its first-ever sustainability strategy, which promises to ensure its circuits and facilities prioritise fan wellbeing and the local environment by enhancing biodiversity and offering healthier menu options.
AMB Sports and Entertainment (owner of the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia) has also been on a mission to ensure its sports centre is making the most of its meals.
Frequent food donations
At the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, food donations are a frequent occurrence. By partnering with nonprofit food rescue organisation Second Helpings Atlanta, the stadium is able to help those in need within the local community of Westside Atlanta. Thanks to its thorough food
SPECIAL REPORT
Special report on sustainable and healthy eating at sporting events
donation programme, the stadium makes sure that no meal goes to waste. In 2023 alone, the stadium successfully donated more than 70,000 meals, which equated to 86,000 pounds of food.
In fact, since the beginning of the programme, the stadium has provided more than 260,000 pounds of fresh food. From steaks to chicken and everything in between, the programme ensures that each meal consists of a generous variety of food types to provide a healthy and nutritious option for those that need it most.
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, the resources needed to deal with a year’s worth of food waste is enormous. It creates greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 42 coal-fired
power plants; requires enough water and energy to supply more than 50 million homes; and uses an area of agricultural land equal to the size of California and New York State combined.
With such an astronomical impact, it is no wonder that the heads at AMB Sports and Entertainment want to make sure their stadium is a shining example of how best to overcome these figures. AMB is not alone in its mission either, with many other venues looking to join the ranks of food-waste fighters. And, as more prominent bodies look to use their platform to promote healthier eating, it is clear that this is just the beginning of a greener, brighter offering from the world of sport. n
A Special Report about elite training routines.
For an elite athlete, driven by dedication and discipline, there are no average days. That said, there are plenty of typical ones. From the alarm at the crack of dawn to the final stretch of evening, every moment is meticulously crafted to enhance prowess. Join Hannah Barnett, as she explores the intense training routines, strategic nutrition and the unwavering focus that drives athletes toward excellence.
A
day in the
life of an athlet
6:00 – Wake up. The first thing many athletes do is drink a glass of water with a slice of lemon to kickstart metabolism and remain hydrated.
6:15 – Pre-run snack. Easy digestible options are best – a small banana or a slice of whole-grain toast with a thin layer of almond butter.
6:20 – Light stretching. A series of dynamic stretches prepare muscles for the morning run.
6:30 – Run time! Beginning with a slow jog for 10-15 minutes to gradually increase heart rate and loosen up muscles, into a longer distance session. Stretches to cool down. Hydration is key post run. Many athletes drink electrolyte-rich beverages to replace fluids lost during the run.
8:00 – It is important to have a nutrient-rich breakfast after a hard workout, such as a large bowl of porridge topped with sliced bananas, berries, a handful of walnuts and a drizzle of honey. Also, a protein smoothie made with spinach, Greek yogurt, a scoop of protein powder and almond milk.
8:30-1 0:00 – Rest! Recovery time is just as crucial as exercise. Many athletes use this time as an opportunity to catch up with their life admin.
10:05 – Mid morning snack – light and energising. A small bowl of mixed fruit with a handful of almonds or a yogurt parfait granola and honey to stay fuelled.
10:15 – Strength training session at the gym focusing on building core strength and leg muscles. This followed by a cool down with foam rolling to aid in muscle recovery.
12:30 – Lunch. Another balanced meal such as a large mixed greens salad with grilled chicken, quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, avocado and a variety of vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes and peppers. Plus hydration, more water throughout the meal and maybe a herbal tea.
13:30 – Nap or rest period to recharge body and mind. Mindfulness or deep breathing exercises are also helpful.
14:30 – Cross-training workout like swimming, cycling or an easy 3–5-mile recovery run to keep muscles active without pushing too hard.
16:00 – Afternoon Snack. Recovery-focused snack such as a protein bar, or rice cakes with peanut butter. Another glass of water or a hydration drink.
17:00 – Personal time, it is important to maintain a health balance between training and rest!
19:00 – Dinner, make it hearty and nutritious. An athlete’s dinner may include grilled salmon or chicken breast, brown rice and a large portion of steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and asparagus.
20:00 – Wind down. A warm bath with Epsom salts to soothe muscles, plus stretching or using a foam roller.
21:00 – Many athletes choose to turn off screens and spend 30 minutes reading or listening to calming music to prepare for sleep. Ensure the room is cool and dark to promote restful sleep.
22:00 – Sleep. A strong 8-9 hours of sleep are essential for recovery and maintaining peak performance for the next day’s training.
TASTE OF THE SEASON
Exciting food and drink for sport
healthy living Nutrition for
To help you all stay healthy, Inside Food & Drink has scoured the world of food and drink to locate delicious examples that taste good and make you feel great. Below you will find just a few items that are guaranteed to leave you wanting more.
Gorilla Energy
Having been on the scene since 2008, Gorilla knows exactly what is needed to increase your energy levels and quench your thirst. And with eight different flavours available in various regions of the world, including delicious juice and energy options, these drinks are a great way to boost your day.
Gorilla Original contains Vitamins B3, B5, B6, B7, B12, Taurin and L-Carnitine, has no more than 32mg of caffeine per 100ml and is just 250 kcal per can. The company is also supported by several ambassadors, including UFC Lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.
“Some days, my energy levels can drop in the afternoon. That’s when I reach for a can of Gorilla Energy to keep me going. They taste great and always give me the energy I need for my cycle home.” Mike Stamp, Webmaster.
To venture further into the world of Gorilla, click here: https://gorillaenergy.com/?locale=global&lang=en i F D &
Initially established during Lockdown, SHREDDY entered the market with a female fitness transformation app aimed to get people moving. Since then, SHREDDY has gone on to create three hugely popular SHREDDY protein bars (Gooey Salted Caramel, Chocolate Brownie Crunch and Peanut Butter Cup). The company has also targeted the supplements market, helping those who are embarking on their personal fitness journey.
SHREDDY SUPERGREENS contains over 30 daily greens, including kale, broccoli, spinach and brussels sprouts, combined with the sweet flavouring of mango and pineapple. It’s hard to believe something so healthy could taste so good! Developed to combat the unaffordability of supplements, SHREDDY SUPERGREENS is jam-packed with 62 ingredients and extracts, to provide an immunity-building, energyrestoring, probiotic superfood that also helps maintain healthy hair, skin and nails.
“As someone who is always on my feet, I often forget to take the time to make sure I’m looking after me. SHREDDY SUPERGREENS is a great solution that is hassle-free and quick to mix. It has been a welcome addition to my hectic day, and its fruity flavour is the perfect palate pleaser.” Hannah Barnett, Editorial Assistant. i F D &
To learn more about SHREDDY’s dedication to providing the best guilt-free, gut-friendly supplements, head on over to: https://shreddy.com/
SHREDDY
TASTE OF THE SEASON
Exciting food and drink for sport
For the exercise enthusiasts looking to mark a special occasion, without losing fitness gains, Warrior has the solution. It comes in the form of a high protein, low sugar CRUNCH bar, now in birthday cake flavour. No excuses!
This richly delicious, multi-layered, crunchy low-carb, high-protein bar is perfect any time of day. Warrior CRUNCH protein bars are one of the best-selling low-sugar, high-protein bars in the UK. These bars are available in over 1,000 supermarket locations, including ASDA, and in all the amazing flavours directly from the official Warrior website.
“I love the taste of birthday cake all year round, but it’s best on that one special day. This year, my birthday coincided with my race training and this bar was not only delicious but kept me going all through my run.” Adam White, Marketing Manager.
Find out more at: www.teamwarrior.com/
i F D &
Carrs Warrior CRUNCH
The UK’s number one supplier of Caribbean food and drink offers a line of juices that make the perfect way to re-hydrate healthily.
Grace Tropical Rhythms is available in four flavours – Mango Carrot, Fruit Punch, Pineapple Ginger and Sorrel Ginger – each one as delicious as the next. Made from a blend of fruit and vegetables, these juice drinks are packed full of Caribbean flavours that transport you to a tropical paradise without having to leave the house. As a standalone refresher or post-workout cooling drink, these juices are the perfect choice, day or night.
“I always need a cool glass of fruit juice after cycling home from work. The Fruit Punch from Grace Foods tastes wonderful and always refreshes me.” Sarah Jones, Designer.
To find out more, head over to the Grace Foods website: www.gracefoods.co.uk
Grace Tropical Rhythms
Warrior® expands range of protein bars
Following the huge success of the CRUNCH bars range, Warrior®, the leading sports nutrition brand, has expanded its portfolio of low sugar and high protein Crunch bars to include two new delicious flavours: Chocolate Orange and Maple Syrup.
The range of Warrior® CRUNCH bars are ideal for those on a low carb, low sugar diet, as well as anyone wanting to improve their healthy snacking habits with additional sources of protein in a tasty, convenient format. Both new flavours of the 64g bars are brimming with protein and contain less than 3g of sugar, helping to keep blood sugar levels low and maintain energy levels for longer.
Aiming to bring the best sports supplements to the market and improve the athletic performance and mental focus of those who consume them, Warrior® is committed to helping those from all walks of life.
A richly delicious, multi-layered, crunchy low-carb, protein bar that is perfect any time of day, Warrior® CRUNCH bars are one of the bestselling low-sugar, high-protein bars in the UK.
Warrior® CRUNCH bars are the result of over 12 months of research and development, working 24-hour days to blend a high protein, low carb, healthy nutritional profile into the true ‘candy bar’ experience. CRUNCH bars are packed with 20g of healthy protein, encased in a layer of gorgeously gooey caramel and wrapped in delicious chocolate. Warrior® CRUNCH bars have almost as much protein as a chicken breast yet taste like a Michelin-starred desert. Warrior® CRUNCH is the perfect protein bar for dieting, eating clean and keeping lean all year round. Built for warriors, designed for athletes, driven to victory.
The bars are available in over 1,000 supermarket locations, including ASDA, and in all the amazing flavours direct from the official Warrior® website. n
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Müller and Myprotein collaborate on tasty high-protein range
Müller Yogurt & Desserts, the nation’s favourite dairy brand, and Myprotein, the leading online sports nutrition brand, have united to launch an exciting new range of highprotein yogurts and desserts.
With the chilled yogurt and potted desserts protein segment growing at four times the rate of the overall segment, this collaboration is set to tap into the potential for additional growth by bringing a unique solution to market. It aims to overcome existing shopper barriers within the protein segment and meet the surge in demand from health-conscious consumers for convenient, protein-rich products, driving category growth.
With an impressive lineup of innovative yogurt and dessert offerings, Müller and Myprotein are combining forces to introduce delicious options into the high-protein category.
Uniting Müller’s heritage of exceptional taste with Myprotein’s
expertise in sports nutrition, the new HFSS-compliant range has been carefully crafted to meet the needs of an active lifestyle.
The new Müller x Myprotein range includes High-Protein Yogurts, Low-Fat Puddings and Low-Fat Mousse. Available from 11 September in various retailers, this HFSS-compliant range will be supported by a robust in-store and digital activation campaign.
“The question we’ve been asking ourselves is how we continue to optimise our health and nutrition range, while bringing something to the dairy aisle that is unique, appeals to expanding shopper needs, and drives further protein category growth,” said Richard Williams, CEO of Müller Yogurt & Desserts. “By expanding our range and bringing together Myprotein, who are the experts in sports nutrition, with Müller’s reputation for outstanding taste, we are confident that we have found the perfect pairing for shoppers.” n
