I’m preparing for an upcoming swim meet and am unsure about the best pre-meet meal. What are the recommended foods and nutritional strategies to maximize performance and energy levels? How long before the meet should I eat, and are there any specific foods to avoid?
Eat a balanced meal with carbs and protein about 2-3 hours before. Good options are pasta with chicken or a turkey sandwich. Avoid heavy or greasy foods and stay hydrated.
Before my swim meets, I usually go for something light but energizing, like a banana and some oatmeal. It gives me good energy without feeling heavy. I eat it about 2-3 hours before. Also, I avoid anything too greasy or sugary—they can mess with my stomach.