Fermented Dairy Products for Athletes
Success in sports is built on three pillars:
regular physical exercise, adequate recovery, and balanced nutrition.
One of the most important components of the diet during the training period is fermented dairy products.
Fermented dairy products for athletes are, first and foremost, a source of easily digestible proteins, carbohydrates, macronutrients like calcium and phosphorus, as well as fluids, which are especially needed during and after physical exercise.
Benefits of fermented dairy products for athletes
Athletes who regularly consume fermented dairy products can feel a quick effect (increased energy and comfortable recovery after training due to protein, carbohydrate, and water intake) and a long-lasting one (normalization of digestion, general improvement of the body's condition, and strengthening of immunity).
One of the basic rules of proper nutrition for athletes is to eat frequently. The intervals between snacks should not exceed 3-4 hours. And many athletes, to maintain a correct diet, consume fermented dairy products shortly before training, during, and after activity.
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Before Training
Yogurt and cottage cheese (tvorog):
- supply carbohydrates to the body
- minimize the risk of gastrointestinal disturbances
- have a low glycemic index
- contain calcium, which contributes to bone tissue strengthening and osteoporosis prevention -
During Training
Yogurt and kefir help to:
- maintain hydration
- delay the onset of fatigue, especially after 60-90 minutes of training. -
After Training
Cottage cheese (tvorog), yogurt, kefir contribute to:
- muscle tissue recovery
- replenishment of energy reserve
- maintenance of water balance
Supermarket and Homemade Fermented Dairy Products
To be sure of the quality and freshness of the products, it is best to prepare fermented dairy products on your own. Homemade fermented dairy products are:
- 100% natural
- live
- fresh
- low-calorie
- free from harmful additives
Homemade Fermented Dairy Products
Cottage Cheese (Tvorog), prepared with a special bacterial starter culture, is a source of easily digestible protein in increased concentration compared to the supermarket version, as well as phosphorus and calcium in the optimal 2:1 ratio. Therefore, cottage cheese is beneficial for athletes for muscle mass gain, bone tissue strengthening, and osteoporosis prevention.
Homemade Yogurt is made with milk and natural starter culture, so it contains no additives. The finished product contains lactic acid bacteria that speed up metabolism. Yogurt improves the state of the gastrointestinal tract, promotes the easy absorption of beneficial nutrients, and also helps to normalize water balance during workouts.
Homemade Kefir is fermented with a starter culture based on the microflora of kefir grains, which are necessary for the normalization of metabolism and weight. It is a low-calorie drink that helps compensate for the loss of fluid and protein during and after sports. Homemade kefir contributes to the improvement of digestion and the recovery of microflora.
Prepare fermented dairy products at home and have good workouts!