Specific Nutrition

God created all of our bodies individually. All humans: mind, body, and spirit require different essentials to create and sustain balance in our highest choices. God created an unspoken language that is expressed within and between individuals. (Robert Tennyson) It is within this individual expression that we can learn, embrace, and act accordingly to create our optimal life. In creating our alignment, it is necessary to design balance through physical activity, nutrition, and spirituality.
Regardless of what our chosen lifestyle fitness demands are, careful nutritional support is required.  Below are a list of factors to take into consideration when you desire to commit to aligning your nutrition with your physical activities:

• High quality protien throughout the day is vital for effectively recovering and repairing muscle tissue.
• Yes, our bodies do require fat in our daily intake. Remember, fat is not used for energy until after 20-30 min of aerobic activity. If you are engaged in primarely endurance activities, your intake may be higher than those individuals exerting less than 30 min of aerobic activity.
• Carbohydrates are where our bodies receive energy.  A high quality carbohydrate in moderation throughout the day will ensure our bodies are getting enough energy that it requires.
• Your pre-workout carbohydrates should be comprised of low glycemic index (converting blood sugar slowly). Your goal prior to your chosen physical activity is to support recovery and repair efficiently without putting on unecessary fat.
• It is vital to always keep in mind that each type of physical activity requires a different metabolic (energy) demand.  With thus being said, the source of calories that fuels your energy must too be different.  Please note: as the distance increases, there is a gradual shift in energy sources.

Some examples of where our ENERGY comes from in correlation to physical activities is as follows:

(ATP = adenosine triphosphate, coenzyme used as an energy carrier in our cells, CP = Creatine Phosphate, a conversion of creatine monohydrate used in improving intensity and recovery.)

Activity                                                                ATP/CP    Glycogen     Oxygen

Walking, jogging or cycling                                        0                0                 100

long and slow distances

Aerobic Orientation                                                  10              30                  60

(step or dance)

Cross-training Orientation                                       34              33                  33

Weight Training                                                        40              50                  10

High/Explosive Intensity                                           90               10                   0

Specifics, calculations, and tools are available. It is to be noted that all information is an estimate. All of us require an individual reflection and assessment. Before your chosen physical activity, it is recommended to eat appropriate ratios of fats, protien, and carbohydrates to support your activity to it's highest potential. These factors are vital and inextricably interrelated. Poor health, bad choices, and exposure to environmental threats over time will rob us all from a life with optimal physical activity. Life balance is all-inclusive. We cannot achieve true fitness by merely training alone. Physical activity is a lifestyle commitment. Little steps can make a difference, and it is never too late or early to START! BE ACTIVE!

(ISSA) Disclaimer: All information is not intended to direct behavior or replace advice from a health care professional. If you have a problem with your health it is important to seek clearance from a qualified health care professional.)