Do you eat to live or live to eat…?

This is a very controversial subject and we may have different views, but we have to agree on one thing: food is a very important part of our lives.  Without it we will die physically. It is also often an integral part of socialising. Just consider how many times food plays a central role when meeting up or going out with friends or family.

Although food plays an important role in our society, it is important to remember that the primary role of food: is to be fuel for our bodies. Food is primarily important for nutrition, NOT indulgence! If you want to live with energy and increase our performance, we must consider the effect of different types of food on our physical, emotional and mental states.

For example if you eat loads of sugar and fat you will definitely experience a rise in blood sugar and a temporary “lift”, but soon thereafter you will experience a sudden drop in your energy levels and feel tired. If you want to sustain your energy throughout your day, there are two simple strategies.

1. Eat a low GI diet, (GI = glycemic index.) Foods which have a low GI slowly release energy during the day and in this way sustain you for longer periods of time. You will therefore not experience large variations in your energy levels during the day.

Examples of low GI foods are: full grain, bran, oatmeal, milk and whole wheat bread.

2. Eat around six smaller meals instead of three large means. Blood sugar levels tend to drop after a few hours.

By eating small, healthy portions of low GI food through the day, you will sustain your energy levels throughout the day.

These two eating habits will help you to work with energy throughout the day. Allowing you to work harder for longer without feeling additional strain! This will have a huge positive effect on your performance.