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Showing posts from October 10, 2021

Do you have a carbohydrate phobia?

Some people are afraid of heights. Some are afraid of snakes and spiders.  Considering the prevalence of disordered eating in endurance athletes, it wouldn't be surprising to hear that many athletes are afraid of carbohydrates.  Although the presence of a piece of bread may not produce the same physical symptoms as being confined in a tight or crowded space, it's not uncommon for athletes, fitness enthusiasts and chronic dieters to experience similar thoughts, feelings and physical sensations - like guilt, anxiety, panic, fear and worry - when it comes to carbohydrates.  Primarily due to the diet industry and popular media, many athletes have irrationally demonized carbohydrates - despite plenty of good research and evidence that carbohydrates play an important role in optimal health. Not only are carbohydrates essential for athletes but regular consumption of wholesome complex carbohydrates (such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, potatoes, beans and lentils) can help ...

Objectifying the female athlete body

I've had something weighing on my mind for the past few days and I felt like today - International Day of The Girl Child - was the right time to share my thoughts.  I'm very passionate about helping females develop a positive body image - especially female athletes. I've got a long way to go but I refuse to give up. There is no escaping the fact that female athletes are objectified. Female athletes do not deserve to be judged, shamed and sexualized. A female athlete's looks should not override the celebration of her athletic ability.  Far too many girls (and women) feel they can't be happy and accepted because they don't have an "ideal" body. Females have learned to see themselves as a collection of body parts - stomach, butt, breasts, legs, thigh, arms - none of which relates to who they are as a human being or what they have to offer as people. The media has brainwashed our perception of beauty. It's becoming increasingly difficult to raise healt...