As part of the Club’s innovative and progressive Community Health and Well Being Programme, a nutrition information evening was organised for members of the Senior, Reserve and Minor football teams following their training session at Moygannon last Wednesday (23rd March) evening.
Ryan Mellon Welfare officer with the Ulster GAA kindly gave of his time and travelled all the way from Moy to provide a great 40 minutes of information, advice and tips on how to eat healthy, how to prepare for exercise, how to maintain energy during training or a match and how to look after the body post exercise.
The players and mentors listened attentively as they heard about the importance of the vital 30 minute window post a match or training in which to refuel to repair damaged muscles. The key is MILK which provides the liquids, protein and the small amount of fat required.
Preparing the body properly for exercise is just as important and just as players get their kit ready for a match they need to think about how they will pre fuel the body with liquids and carbohydrates. The presentation provoked plenty of questions from the players dispelled some myths and clarified how they need to think about what they eat and drink.
An interesting part of the discussion was around the use of supplements and how they are currently unregulated and can pose a serious health risk. If players are eating and drinking right before during and after exercise then all the body needs to build and maintain fitness will be provided without the need for supplements. Ryan urged players to think twice about using supplements and if they want to do so to check carefully what they contain and if in doubt seek professional advice on these.
Katrina Kernan the Clubs Community Health and Development Officer attended the meeting and was impressed by the presentation and how well it was conveyed to the players. Consideration will be given to further similar event.
The Club would wish to thank Ryan for his time and valuable presentation. It would also like to thank the Whistledown Hotel who provided a healthy and nutritious meal for the players.
