What to Eat Before Playing a Sport

Eating a healthy diet will give you the best foundation — but what should you eat the day of your big game? Check our tips.

• Give yourself time to digest. The best time to eat is two to four hours before you play. 
• Focus on carbohydrates. Before the game you want to eat a meal high in carbs and low in fat and protein. Try to avoid any spicy foods or foods that could irritate the stomach. 
• Eat a small meal, about 500 to 700 calories. A larger meal could slow you down during the game. 
• Drink plenty of water. Start drinking water two hours before the game.
• Avoid foods with a lot of fat like hamburgers, hot dogs, French fries, eggs, steaks, and nuts. 
• If you're playing multiple sports games eat a snack between games, not a meal. Good snacks include low fat yogurt, banana, or peanut butter crackers.