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How to fuel for a BJJ competition
There are several factors to consider when deciding how to fuel for a BJJ competition, some of which are outside of your control. This is a guide for recreational BJJ players who are interested in improving their performance in competitions. Elite level athletes will benefit from a more detailed nutrition plan specific to their physical characteristics, training program, among other factors. Why is it tricky to fuel for a BJJ competition? First, most competitions require you to weigh in on the day, which means there you will not have time to rehydrate and regain weight (if you have cut weight) before your fights. Second, matches can go for the whole…
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Will coffee dehydrate you?
Will coffee dehydrate you? If you are concerned about the detrimental effects of coffee on your hydration status, this article is for you. Definitions How much caffeine is in coffee? The amount of caffeine in coffee drinks is highly variable. For example, the following have been found to affect how much caffeine is in brewed coffee: species (i.e. Robusta vs Arabica), temperature of brewing water, coffee to water ratio, volume of coffee drink, origin of coffee beans and method of growing, among other factors (4). The table below shows some averages based on Australian data (5): However, actual values in your coffee can be all over the place. For example,…
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Sodium in sports
At the population level, health authorities recommend limiting sodium intake to prevent chronic conditions. However, the role of sodium in sports is more complicated, as this electrolyte plays important roles related to performance and recovery. Roles of sodium As seen in the article How much salt is too much?, sodium has roles in the maintenance of plasma volume and transmission of nerve impulses. In addition, it is needed for muscle contraction and glucose transport into cells. As a reminder, glucose is essential for energy production during most types of exercise, as well as recovery post-exercise. Sodium in sports How do we lose sodium The main ways we lose sodium is…
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Milk as a sports supplement
Milk as a sports supplement? Why not! Milk is a relatively inexpensive source of many nutrients, which include protein, calcium, vitamins and minerals. Milks from different ruminants (e.g. cows, goats, water buffalo) have similar nutrient profiles. However, for the sake of this article we will be talking about cow’s milk as it’s the most available and commonly consumed. Nutrients in milk Milk and other dairy foods contain calcium, protein, B vitamins (including B2 and B12), vitamins A and D, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, zinc and iodine. The table below shows average content for some nutrients of different types of plain cow’s milk (data from 1). A glass of milk has 8…
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Exercising in the heat
Exercising in the heat represents a number of challenges for an athlete, ranging from discomfort to severe health threats. This is particularly relevant this year, as we approach the summer Olympic games in Tokyo, where temperature and other ambient conditions can be severe and non-predictable. Effects of heat on the body Our bodies function best at temperatures between 35 and 39°C (1). Exercise stress can result in exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome, which consists in decreased integrity and function of the gastrointestinal system. This condition is worsened when our core temperature goes up to 39°C. A compromised gut can, in turn, cause other issues such as bacteria entering the bloodstream, decreased nutrient…
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Product review: Edge Electrolytes
Hydration is very important for athletes but water alone is not enough; you need to replenish the electrolytes that are lost in sweat. Edge Electrolytes is a new product in the Australian market of hydration sports supplements. Read on to find out what is special about Edge. Edge Electrolytes The product is manufactured by Pure Aussie Sport and comes as a powder in single-serve sachets that can be bought individually or in boxes of 12. Edge is unique because it’s made with concentrated ocean water, which provides more than 70 essential minerals, including magnesium, sodium and potassium. If this doesn’t sound appealing to your tastebuds, you’ll be pleased to know…
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Product review: Keto Nutrition sports supplements
It’s undeniable that keto (i.e. the ketogenic diet) has gone mainstream. Keto recipes are flooding the internet and keto food products the supermarket shelves. Sports supplements are not an exception, with Keto Nutrition being one of the newest brands in the market dedicated to athletes who choose this nutrition strategy. Disclaimers: I received a sample pack free of charge from the manufacturer. I do not advocate for a ketogenic diet for healthy people or athletes as a blanket statement. The supplements Keto Nutrition offers a range of sports gels, protein bars, hydration powders and exogenous ketones (exogenous = from outside, meaning ketones you consume instead of produce in your body).…
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Product review: Prepd Hydration
I first heard about Prepd Hydration from the Sports Dietitians Australia newsletter. These performance drinks are certified by HASTA, which means they do not contain any banned substances. These products have been developed in partnership with researchers at Flinders University. The drinks Prepd Hydration drinks come in 2 varieties: Prime and Recover. These are designed to be taken pre- and post-event, respectively. Both types come in 2 flavours: mango + passionfruit and strawberry + kiwi. All beverages come in 350ml bottles and are ready to drink. Prime contains resistant starch to improve fluid uptake. They should be consumed 6-18 hours before exercise. Recover contain the electrolyte needed to replenish fluids…
