Competition Prep: Diet & Associated Psychological Impacts
When you make the decision to participate in a competition you need to be prepared for the extremes that could potentially come along with the competition prep journey. Use of diuretics, supplements, extreme cardio, and/or restrictive dieting can have impacts on the individual. These extremes that you put your body through can often take a major toll on your mental and physical health in the short term and can even have long term impacts long past the show. There are numerous psychological impacts of dieting here are a few ways to help manager these impacts.
Tips to Managing Impacts
ESTABLISH A SUPPORT SYSTEM
As discussed in another blog, Competition Prep: Support System (link) it is important to have a good support system and communicate the extremes that they might experience with you during the competition prep journey.
WORK WITH A COACH YOU TRUST
If you're at a place where you can afford a coach, do it. Having guidance from a seasoned coach that has a solid track record of helping people achieve their goals is an invaluable resource to have on your side.
DOCUMENT MENTAL CHANGES WITH DIET PLAN
Given the wide range of interactions our body has with food (or a lack thereof) it is a great resource to have documentation of your mental changes. This is a great resource for your coach as they make changes to your diet plan. To learn more about the Joys of Journaling check out my other blog (link).
CONSIDER FAMILY HISTORY
Explore your family history and pre-existing conditions as they can impact the dieting process. IBS, Crohn's, Diverticulitis, Ulcerative Colitis, fatty liver, diabetes, and thyroid dysfunction can all impact the type of diet you might want to adhere to.
ROUTINE BLOOD WORK
Blood work is an essential tool to understanding your bodies ability to process foods, the affects of your supplements, and potential mood swings.
CONSIDER A GUT BIOME TEST
The science of gut health is ever expanding. Understanding the health of your gut is critical when considering what to add or subtract from your diet.
If you are thinking of competing in a show and you want to work with a professional who can empathize with your competition prep while strengthening your communication, coping skills, and your relationships, please contact me today.
