Diet for Active Lifestyles

Everybody regardless of their level of physical activity should ideally be consuming a healthy balanced diet that provides adequate nutrients for their day to day activities. However, some people due to certain unique circumstances may have to modify their diets to address their specific needs. Children for instance should have a nutrient dense diet rich in all the body building food groups while senior citizens need some micronutrients, vitamins and minerals more than the young and middle aged

For those that have an active lifestyle, whether they're professional athletes, sportsmen and women or simply those who are on the move a lot due to studies or work, there are some smart eating choices that can be incorporated into their always on the go schedule.

More often than not it is these people who also take more time in preparing their own food at home using ingredients they're familiar with (organic and natural) as opposed to buying convenient, ready-to-cook or eat, heavily processed foods that have a lot of artificial ingredients like flavors, colors and preservatives not to mention sodium.

The simplest foods active people can munch on don't even require a gourmet recipe! Fresh fruits and vegetables are great for breakfast or a snack. To balance it more, compose a great tasting homemade muesli by mixing your favorite oats with dried and fresh fruits and nuts. Top with low fat yoghurt for a probioic and calcium boost.

Depending on the person, protein sources vary from meat, poultry, fish and even vegetables. An active person's dinner plate always has room for an occasional grilled steak but a better option would be to use leaner cuts and serve with fiber-rich steamed vegetables lightly salted.

For fueling an active lifestyle, carbohydrates from whole grain, wheat bread and cereals are ideal. These can be made into fantastic sandwiches, entrée rice or pasta dishes. Keep the refined sugars and simple carbs to a minimum as these do not provide quality energy.

Speaking of fiber, we all know this is good for the body, but for active people, it is recommended not to eat their favoring salad or breakfast muesli before a workout as they might experience gassiness and discomfort. Those aware of this already know not to exert themselves right after a meal though.

What better time to start eating healthy than now. It's not even that difficult to start given you have the right motivation and will to live healthy and more porductive.