Five Healthy Snacks to Take When Competing
We already know that what we’re feeding our four-legged beasties is going to affect their way of going, in body and mind, it is the same for us. Preparation is key when getting horses ready for competition, we don’t scrimp on their nutrition, why should we on our own?
Eating at a competition can be tricky, depending on what times you have, when you got up, what’s available, expense, etc. If you’re not lucky enough to have a willing family member to prepare a full-on hamper for you, taking 20 minutes the day before a competition to prepare some snacks to take with you is a great way to ensure you won’t get stuck.
I like to focus on foods that contain slow release energy, that doesn’t provoke blood sugar spikes and foods that are naturally high in antioxidants to help repair any cellular wear and tear.
- Overnight oats: Soak ¼ cup oats in ½ cup milk/water/milk alternative with smashed half a banana, 1 heaped tbsp of nut butter, 1 tbsp of cocoa powder, a handful of frozen berries. Cover and leave in the fridge overnight and take with you in the morning. This is a great start to the day, with a good mixture of protein, carbs and fat to fuel you through to lunch. You can have this as a meal or as a snack to keep dipping into between classes.
- Chopped veg: Chop up carrots, cucumbers, peppers, celery. Take a pot of hummus to dip. You can share the carrots with Neddy.
- Fruit: Any, full of antioxidants and fibre, already prepared and ready to eat. Again, Neddy can have any apple cores going spare.
- Energy bars/balls: Either home-made or shop bought. These are usually made with nuts, dates, spices and little else. Brands such as; Naked, Eat Natural, Bounce Balls are very good, Aldi also do their own bar which are much cheaper than the above brands and just as tasty.
- Roasted chickpeas: A good source of fibre and protein and a healthy alternative to crisps. Mix them in a little coconut oil and your favourite spices and roast in an oven for 10-15 minutes. Leave to cool and keep in an airtight container.
by Hannah Funnell
Nutritionist at Optimum Muscle Care
Image credits: Pixabay
