Athletes: what do you eat before a big event?

[UncleChuckSucks]

I am in a bit of a pickle.

I do mixed martial arts and have a major workshop tomorrow that will run for about 6 hours straight--no breaks. Literally. It's very physically intense--most people often experience total shutdown and muscle cramps before the end. Oh, did I mention that my UC is flaring this week! Fantastico! Nothing like battling the trots while someone is trying to take you to the ground. :dance:

I bring bananas to avoid cramps and gulp bites of Clif kids bars during the workshops, but I was wondering how those of you who manage to be athletic or run races despite everything manage your diets before, during, and after major exercise events. Everything online talks about carbs and protein, but I feel like with Crohns and UC, we're different. I just don't know how to fuel right, or how to give my body what it needs.

Basically, I'm curious to listen to any advice you all may have when it comes to diet and being super active. Many, many thanks!

 

[mbishop]

I've done intense MMA workouts and have Crohn's - its scary when you are more afraid of the IBD as opposed to a triangle choke, but it puts things in perspective.

I try and start changing my diet a couple days before. I make sure I have enough carbs and protein, and reduce anything that may be an irritant or anything that is too high in fat. The day off, I still with something simple like a banana in the morning. While I reduce my physical food intake the day of, I do go for lots of Gatorade and other electrolyte rich drinks to avoid dehydration. I also plan on a small meal 30-60 minutes after the intense exercise.

 

[UncleChuckSucks]

Thank you! I'd love to talk to you more sometime about how you handle the MMA lifestyle and balance it with illness. I appreciate your reply!