Nutrition

Budding/3 min read

Strategic nutrition approach focused on sustained energy, optimal health, and supporting active lifestyle goals through whole foods and balanced eating.

Current Nutrition Philosophy

Core Principles

  • Whole Foods Focus: Prioritize minimally processed, nutrient-dense foods
  • Balanced Macros: Appropriate protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates
  • Timing Matters: Fuel performance and recovery with strategic timing
  • Hydration First: Adequate water intake as foundation
  • 80/20 Approach: Consistent healthy choices with flexibility for life

Daily Structure

  • Breakfast: Protein-rich start with complex carbs
  • Lunch: Balanced meal with vegetables, protein, healthy fats
  • Dinner: Lighter dinner with focus on recovery nutrients
  • Snacks: Planned, nutrient-dense options when needed

Macronutrient Strategy

Protein Goals

  • Target: 0.8-1g per pound of body weight
  • Sources: Lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, quinoa
  • Timing: 20-30g per meal, post-workout emphasis
  • Quality: Complete amino acid profiles when possible

Carbohydrate Approach

  • Focus: Complex carbs for sustained energy
  • Sources: Oats, quinoa, sweet potatoes, fruits, vegetables
  • Timing: Higher intake around workouts
  • Fiber: 25-35g daily for digestive health

Healthy Fats

  • Target: 20-30% of total calories
  • Sources: Avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil, fatty fish
  • Benefits: Hormone production, nutrient absorption, satiety
  • Balance: Omega-3 to omega-6 ratio consideration

Food Quality & Sources

Prioritize

  • Vegetables: Variety of colors and types, aim for 5-7 servings
  • Lean Proteins: Fish, poultry, legumes, quality plant proteins
  • Whole Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, oats, sprouted grains
  • Healthy Fats: Nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil
  • Fresh Fruits: Seasonal, local when possible

Minimize

  • Processed Foods: Packaged items with long ingredient lists
  • Added Sugars: Sodas, candy, processed snacks
  • Trans Fats: Partially hydrogenated oils
  • Excessive Alcohol: Impacts sleep, recovery, and nutrition absorption

Meal Planning & Application

Diet Planning

  • Meal Preparation: Weekly batch cooking and planning
  • Nutrient Tracking: Occasional monitoring for balance
  • Dietary Adjustments: Based on energy, performance, health goals

Health Goals

  • Weight Management: Caloric balance with nutrient density
  • Energy Levels: Stable blood sugar through balanced meals
  • Disease Prevention: Anti-inflammatory foods and antioxidants
  • Performance Support: Fuel training and recovery needs

Best Practices

Daily Habits

  • Focus on whole foods over processed options
  • Limit processed foods and added sugars
  • Stay adequately hydrated throughout the day
  • Plan meals and snacks to avoid poor choices
  • Listen to hunger and fullness cues

Performance Integration

  • Pre-Workout: Light, easily digestible fuel
  • Post-Workout: Protein and carbs for recovery
  • Daily: Support training adaptations and energy needs
  • Hydration: Critical for performance and recovery

Connected notes