Myth vs. Fact: Candy for Energy?

MYTH VS. FACT

Myth: “I need energy throughout my football game so I just snack on candy at halftime as the sugar pumps me up”

Fact: Football sports nutrition is different from other sports because the games are long and can be less intense depending on your position. The goal is to stabilize blood sugar and keep energy levels up so you are ready to perform when called upon. Thus, you should be snacking on carbohydrate- protein snacks throughout the game as the combination keeps your energy up. Examples include trail mix, peanut butter crackers, nuts and a banana, beef jerky and a fruit, a nut-based granola bar or a protein bar. Also, be sure you drink adequate fluid throughout the game to stay hydrated.
–Amy Goodson

amy-goodson-quarterback-ranchAmy Goodson, MS, RD, CSSD, LD is a registered dietitian for Ben Hogan Sports Medicine and serves as the sports dietitian for the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, FC Soccer Dallas, Jim McClean Golf School, Texas Christian University Athletics, and University of Texas at Arlington Athletics. In addition, she is an adjunct professor and dietetic intern preceptor for Texas Woman’s University, Texas Christian University and t