Football is a game of strength, speed and skill; all of which can be affected by what, when and how much a participant eats and drinks.

PRE-GAME MEALS

The primary goal for providing participants with a pre-game meal is to fuel the body for competition. The best strategy is to choose lower-fat foods. When planning a pre-game meal early in the day try to avoid foods such as fried meats, fried potatoes, bacon, and sausage. Instead, choose foods that favor leaner protein and carbohydrates such as bread, cereal, and toast. For afternoon games choose grilled, baked, or broiled meats, tomato instead of cream sauce, low-fat milk, and baked or boiled, instead of fried, potatoes. Additional food options for pre-game meals include:

• Turkey or ham subs, fruit salad, and frozen yogurt

• Eggs, ham, fruit

• Pasta with red meat sauce, grilled chicken, salad and fruit

• Smoothie, cereal, fruit .

• For beverages: sports drinks, juices, and water

Keep Your Body Hydrated and beat the heat. Go easy on the sports drinks. Water is a far better alternative.