Fuel for exercise

Fuel for any activity comes from our food and drink. If the proper fuel isn't supplied to our body, it will perform badly and soon run out of energy. 

The basic nutritional recommendations for people involved in sport and exercise are very similar to those for the general public. Essentially, the diet of anyone involved in exercise should

encompass a variety of different foods that are high in carbohydrate, contain a normal amount of protein, and a limited amount of fat. It should also include plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. If you want more information on a healthy diet click here.

The main difference is that anyone who exercises burns up extra energy, so they need to consume more food than sedentary individuals. Here John Brewer considers each of the main food groups in turn and considers how to plan meal times around an exercise programme.