For the first time in 22 years, the Toronto Blue Jays are competing in the American League Championship Series (ALCS). Chris Joyner, Major League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator for the Blue Jays, notes that this feat would not have been possible without a balanced diet on the players’ part.
“Our guys eat anything and everything,” says Joyner. “We work with a sports dietitian and do lots of education with the guys about how to make healthier choices and nutrient timing for peak performance.”
Joyner cites “good quality protein,” including chicken breasts, beans, and vegan protein powder, as prime sources of nutrition for his players. Additionally, he notes that the players are each educated about keeping “a good balance” between proteins, healthy carbs, fruits, vegetables and healthy fats in their daily diet.
Snack-wise, Joyner says that the players’ favourites are SoLo’s GI Energy Bars. Created by Canadian-grown New Era Nutrition, these bars are clinically validated as being low on the glycemic index, meaning that they provide sustained—rather than short-lived—energy.
“That’s what’s great about the bars,” explains Joyner. “Most of the time, we want the guys having long-lasting energy that will get them through a training session or a game. A quick-releasing sugar like a doughnut isn’t going to have much staying power!”
For more information on these unique snacks, visit www.soloenergybar.ca.
