Fueling Movement and Performance
by the Cow Creek Health and Wellness Center Dietetics and Healthy Living Team
One of the greatest things we’re capable of is movement. Bending, jumping, leaning, bending, walking, and reaching are just a few examples of what our bodies can do.
Just like a car needs gas to go, our bodies also needs fuel; however, not all energy is created equally. Carbohydrates are a beloved source of energy for muscles, but the quality of those carbs matter.
Can you guess what a candy bar, a banana, and a kidney bean all have in common? They all have carbohydrates! But a candy bar is not equal to the others. bananas and kidney beans come with fiber, micronutrients, and carbohydrates, while the candy bar is just the carbs without everything else your body craves.
So, what foods best fuel our bodies?
- Carbohydrates: Found in nutrient-dense sources such as fruits, beans, squash, sweet potatoes, and corn, these provide steady energy and essential fiber.
- Proteins: Lean meats, fish, seafood, beans, quinoa, and tempeh support muscle repair and overall body function.
- Fats: Healthy fats from walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds play a key role in energy balance.
- Micronutrients and Phytochemicals: These are vital to overall health, and can be found in berries, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables.
By choosing high-quality, nutrient-rich foods, we provide our bodies with the fuel they need to move efficiently and perform optimally. The next time you prepare a meal, think about how you’re fueling your movement—not just for exercise, but for life itself.
This article comes to you from the Cow Creek Health and Wellness Center Dietetics and Healthy Living Team
Please reach out to one of our Lifestyle Coaches for lifestyle and nutrition support, or join one of the Diabetes Prevention Program groups! (541) 672-8533
