What should divers eat

As you know carbohydrates are very essential in this situation because they are energy generating, and they are a source of calories too, this is needed in the body because during diving, much calories are burnt out hence to remain efficient there must be a replacement. Note that rice goes through digestion faster than other carbohydrate-rich foods and because of this speed in digestion and generation of energy to be used, that is why it is given a priority here, and rice would be the best option.

All the above options are perfect but still missing some components like carbohydrates and the best that can provide it is brown rice which will work on maintaining your body temperature. Not any type of nuts is restricted here, just go ahead and use what you have. The most important thing here is that these nuts whatever kind they are, they provide high levels of fats and proteins to the body.

In diving, you will be moving your body all the times and this can be really energy draining. Protein-rich nuts will provide energy for the body, this is the reason why you should consider adding nuts to your diet just before to go scuba diving. To conclude with, If you just never considered checking on your diet then I think you just got a better reason to do so, now you have just realized that it will need you more energy to go on with this sport , energy will be only generated more if you chose priority foods that will do that in the shortest time possible, to get the energy needed to dive and come back, to deal with the cramps when you get affected and to deal with the injuries too you need to have such selected diet to perform this functions.

Your email address will not be published. Skip to content I had just started scuba diving as a beginner and I was very excited that I was picking up really quick. Divers should take a diet that contains more energy giving food, drinks that will deal with dehydration issues and protein-rich food to deal with bodybuilding, just in case you get scratches or injuries.

Here are some of the foods that are very essential before you go scuba diving your body will keep up for long because of the energy produced by the carbohydrates in bananas. Contents 1 Why Banana for breakfast for the dive day? Fruits will provide your body energy that really needs for dive 3. Vegetables necessary to provide your body with the power needed 3. Water is the best source for getting hydrated while you are diving 3.

Grass-fed Beef Jerky is recommended for getting protein and omega -3 3. Salomon can be save you from feeling hungry 3. Again, water is the most important thing to keep replenishing in your body. On a dive boat, you will be in the sun more and if you are in a tropical area, the heat and humidity will cause dehydration faster. Eat more carbs and fats to keep your energy up during the whole trip, but make sure it is a balance between fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Before any strenuous dives plan to eat extra carbs to delay fatigue. Diving over multiple days will also deplete your electrolytes.

Replenish these with fruits, vegetables, or sports drinks 1. Morning dives on a liveaboard tend to start very early and alcohol will make you more tired and ill-prepared. Some liveaboards prohibit alcohol onboard, while others offer drinks at certain times or let you bring your own.

Many liveaboard companies make food a priority and provide nutritional meals. As fellow scuba divers, they know what foods are best and want to keep their divers healthy. Most will provide a sample menu for you when you book and work with any dietary conditions. Eating the right healthy foods in the days before a dive trip will give you the most energy to complete your dives.

Hydration is one of the most important factors, and divers should drink more water before and after diving. Staying away from new foods and alcohol is the best choice to avoid getting sick during your dive trip. Rebecca lives next to the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, where she guides kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and snorkeling tours. She is passionate about outdoor activities and enjoys writing pieces that inspire others to get outside.

Snorkeling Scuba Diving Destinations. Topics Snorkeling Scuba Diving Destinations. Types Product Guides Tutorials Destinations. Us About Subscribe Contact. The best and worst foods to eat before scuba diving Your diet plays a big part in how you feel before and after scuba diving. What you should eat before scuba diving Water One of the most important things to consume before diving is water.

Food Like any exercise, your body needs carbohydrates and fats to create energy and to protect your muscles. Avoid alcoholic drinks atleast 8 hours before a dive. Foods to avoid before scuba diving One of the most important things to stay away from is alcohol. What to eat after diving Once you finish a scuba dive, you will probably feel thirsty, tired, or hungry. Carbs help with postexercise recovery and endurance that will prepare you for additional dives 7 Dive shops that take you out on a boat usually provide small meals or snacks between dives.

Eating on a liveaboard or long diving trip If you are going on a multi-day dive trip or traveling on a liveaboard your nutrition is even more important. Conclusion Eating the right healthy foods in the days before a dive trip will give you the most energy to complete your dives. References T. Doubt; J.

Thorp; P. Semeco, A, May, However, to maximise performance, having a carbohydrate rich liquid such as flavoured milk or smoothies can be ideal for fuel and stomach comfort as liquids empty more quickly from the stomach than solid foods. Busy schedules e. Body composition has an important role in the success of divers for agility, dynamic power and technique.

As nutrition has a key role in managing body composition and performance, any athlete wishing to change their body composition should consult with an Accredited Sports Dietitian for best outcomes.

This can increase fluid loss from the body. To maintain good hydration levels, divers should drink fluids before, during and after training and competition. However, the amount of fluid needed will depend on individual fluid losses and sweat rates.

In most circumstances, water will be sufficient to meet hydration needs during training. This combination of fluids, electrolytes and carbohydrate can help to maximise performance in these situations. As dives consist of twists, turns and somersaults, stomach comfort can be a challenge for some athletes. In order to maximise digestion and minimise the risk of gut upset, foods chosen should be light and easy to digest.

Reducing the fat and fibre content of the meals, as well as avoiding spicy foods can help to avoid stomach upset. Each athlete is different, and the timing of pre-competition nutrition will depend on the timing of the first round of competition. In general, most divers will often eat a pre-competition meal around 3 to 4 hours before the start. To optimise performance meal and snacks should contain some carbohydrate for fuel as well as fluids for hydration.