The importance of a healthy and balanced nutritional intake can be likened to that of a finely tuned car. Imagine driving a Porsche without any petrol, its not going to go too far and certainly cannot function at its maximum capacity. The human body is no exception and in particular in this context the golfer.  The best golf swing in the world will not achieve its peak performance if the body is undernourished or dehydrated. The human body gets its fuel from the nutrients contained in food and drink of which the six major groups include carbohydrates, proteins, fats and oils, vitamins, minerals and water. A variety of these nutrients are needed to keep fit and healthy particularly if you are generally active, take part in sport or set yourself individual challenges.The nutrients in our food provide energy, promote growth and development and regulate our bodily functions. Our body depends on these nutrients, as it is unable to produce sufficient amounts on its own. Here are a few key pointers to assist the golfer achieve a balanced fuelling system enabling the best opportunity of reaching optimum performance.

• Regular hydration – Ensure not to wait until the 9th hole or until you feel thirsty before taking fluids on board. Even mild forms of dehydration can affect fatigue levels and concentration on the golf course.Take a few small sips every few holes. Water or flavoured water is ideal. Fruit juices do not rehydrate the body as efficiently due to its high concentration which empties more slowly from the stomach than plain water, as water from the body must dilute them. This results in a net reduction in body fluid.
• Carry Low fat carbohydrate rich snacks in your golf bag – cereal bars, dried fruit, bananas, wholemeal sandwiches with low fat protein filling, i.e. ham, chicken. Wholegrain options and fibre rich cereals taste better, are more filling and also provide sustainable energy for prolonged activity.
• Planning ahead means that you are always prepared with a nutritional snack rather than unhealthy fast food snacks for nutritional requirements.
• Eat little and often ensuring energy levels are kept constant rather than extreme highs and lows.
• Eat a balanced low fat diet combining the required fruits, vegetables, protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats.