We all know that what you eat affects how you feel. And if you’re like most pickleball players, you try to make smart snacking choices during your games.
But here’s something that might surprise you: the snacks for athletes are often the worst choices. Here’s why:
First, Let’s Talk About What Not to Eat
Most of us try to eat the right things. We grab what we’ve seen marketed as healthy or energizing. But during active play – especially sessions lasting two or three hours – your body has very specific needs.
And some foods and drinks slow you down more than they help. Here are 3 that often hurt more than help during long sessions:
1. Sports drinks (anything ending in “-ade”)
Yes, they’re everywhere. And yes, they’re packed with sugar. That sugar gives you a short-term spike… followed by a crash. The result? Brain fog, jittery hands, and the sudden feeling that your focus just left the court.
2. Granola bars
They may seem healthy, but they’re often loaded with fiber and complex carbs that take time and energy to digest. That digestion diverts blood away from your muscles and into your gut – right when you need it most.
3. Protein bars
This might be the biggest surprise of all. While protein is great after you’re done playing, it’s a poor choice during a session. Protein takes longer to break down and pulls blood away from your working muscles, leaving you feeling sluggish and slow.
The Snacks That Actually Work
Instead of complex, slow-digesting foods, your body wants simple, fast-access energy during play. You want foods that digest easily, replenish key nutrients, and keep your mind clear.
Here’s what you should have instead:
1. Bananas
They deliver quick-burning carbohydrates and a solid dose of potassium – perfect for muscle function and stamina. Portable, peelable, and easy to eat mid-game.
2. Salted peanuts
A small handful gives you salt to maintain electrolyte balance and a bit of carb-based fuel – without sitting heavy in your stomach.
3. Tart cherry juice
This one’s the hidden gem. Studies show tart cherry juice helps reduce soreness, inflammation, and recovery time. Bonus: it’s naturally low in sugar and supports mental clarity. A small bottle in your bag can make a big difference during your games – and the next morning.
Let’s recap: What to Pack – and What to Skip
Let’s make it easy. Instead of overthinking nutrition, just swap out the problem foods:
Ditch: Sports drinks → Try: Tart cherry juice mixed with water
Ditch: Granola bars → Try: A banana at the halfway point
Ditch: Protein bars → Try: Small handful of salted nuts
Tackle Energy from the Inside, Too
Even the best court snacks can’t fully fix sluggish energy if your cells aren’t working efficiently. That’s why many active 50+ players now add Advanced Mitochondrial Formula to their daily routine.
Advanced Mitochondrial Formula is a comprehensive formula that includes nutrients that help your cells produce more energy, such as CoQ10, PQQ, and D-Ribose. It’s especially helpful for those days when you need sustained energy.
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Bottom Line
Look, you’re already packing a bag. You’re already bringing snacks. The only difference is grabbing the right ones.
Next time you head to the courts, skip the sports drink aisle. Grab a banana, a small bag of salted peanuts, and a bottle of tart cherry juice. That’s it.
You’ll have better energy. You’ll play longer. And you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of outlasting most other players.
