The expression “You are what you eat” originated in 1826 from a French lawyer, Anthelme Brillat-Savarin, who actually said, “Tell me what you eat and I will tell you what you are”. (Apparently he meant that the food you eat affects your state of mind and your health).
How many of us believe this mantra? And why am I talking about it? Blame the Olympics!
Watching athletes performing to the highest level on the global stage got me thinking about their preparation for their particular events and how keep their bodies (and minds) attuned to the demands, specifically their diets before and during competition time.
As a personal trainer I often find myself being asked for advice on what I could call “training diets”. Being qualified to offer nutritional advice means I can provide guidance on managing nutrition relating to conditions such as obesity and diabetes, together with weight management advice in general to compliment exercise programmes.
Whilst I’m not planning to train anyone to compete at Olympic-level, it is widely accepted that diet and nutrition are vital elements of the journey towards a healthier future for everyone, whether they are elite sportspeople or occasional walkers!
It’s natural, therefore, that I should be keen to help any of my clients to understand the role of nutrition in a fitness programme. So, when we are working through one of our sessions, don’t be surprised if I show more than a little interest in what you are consuming during the day!
Whilst only a Registered Dietician is allowed to medically prescribe nutrition plans, as an Advanced Personal Trainer I am qualified to provide advice, recommendations and suggestions regarding nutritional changes relating to personal fitness targets, and for the majority of folks – this will give them the tools and knowledge to get on track.
The key point is that advice on nutrition is a valuable ingredient of an exercise plan and can help you reach your fitness goals quicker – You Can’t Out-Train a Bad Diet!
Acknowledgements and research
befitnessandpt.co.uk 