Fuel You Game: Nutrition Tips for Golfers to Stay Focused and Energized

You have invested in the most advanced golf equipment and the newest apparel, but have you considered that the food and beverages you consume are perhaps equally important to the game?

What you eat and drink before, during, and after you hit the links will determine how well you perform, as well as help you recover after your game.

Golf may not be a high-endurance sport, but it does require energy, focus, and keen hand-eye coordination, all amid an environment that can be taxing if temperatures soar. Your golf nutrition will help you sustain your energy, maintain concentration, and remain competitive so that you can play at your optimal level.

Before You Tee Off: What to Eat and When

Staying hydrated is key because dehydration can stop your progress quickly by causing muscle cramps and leaving you feeling extremely tired and out of focus. Of course, when you are unable to think clearly, your performance will suffer. Weigh yourself without clothing before your round so you’ll know how much water you’ll need to replenish after you finish (more on that later).

What to eat before golf is just as important as when to eat. If your tee time is early, eat your normal breakfast two to three hours before your round begins. Your body will need this fuel to make it through at least the first nine holes. Yogurt with mixed nuts and fruit is one example of a pre-game meal. High fiber cereal with low-fat milk and fruit is another example. You’ll want to enjoy your coffee, but also drink plenty of water as part of your golf nutrition plan before heading out to the course.

Fueling Your Round: What to Eat and Drink on the Course

As you progress around the fairways, remember to hydrate every 20 minutes. Avoid drinking alcohol or caffeinated beverages, which can lead to dehydration and impair your ability to drive, swing, and chip effectively on the golf course.

If the heat index is high and you plan to spend more than 60 minutes outside, you will need to replenish your electrolytes. Drinking sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade, diluted with water will help restore these essential nutrients. Ideal snacks during your game include fruit, nuts, and pretzels.

Post-Round Recovery: How to Rehydrate and Refuel

As soon as you return home, weigh yourself again without clothing. For every pound of weight lost, drink 16 ounces of water to replenish yourself throughout the evening. Although you might want to celebrate (or drown your sorrows) after your round with beer or a cocktail, these beverages can further aggravate your dehydration.

The Bottom Line: Nutrition and Performance go Hand-in-Hand

If you love the game of golf and want to perform at your optimum level, invest well in your game by making smart choices in your equipment and good golf nutrition. To take your golf game to even greater heights, the Aviv Medical Program can help you regain your stamina and optimize your brain and body performance.

Watch how PGA Tour golfer and Ryder Cup winner Tommy Fleetwood elevated his golf game through the Aviv Medical Program.

Aviv Clinics’ groundbreaking treatment enhances cognitive and physical function and triggers the body’s natural capability for self-regeneration. The program can include a unique hyperbaric oxygen therapy protocol, alongside other doctor-prescribed interventions, including cognitive exercises, physical training, and nutrition coaching to tailor a personalized program to your individual needs.

Want to learn more about how Aviv Clinics in central Florida can elevate your skills? Click the button below to schedule a free consultation with one of our board-certified physicians.