Go-faster Diets

Could veganism, intermittent fasting or going gluten-free boost your performance? We investigate

- Sarah Sellens

How would your performance change if you switched up your diet? Would ditching dairy, trying intermittent fasting or going gluten-free give you a competitive edge? Some of the biggest names in sport attribute part of their success to a change in nutrition: pro cyclist Chris Froome cut back on carbs for more protein and went on to win multiple Tours; Lewis Hamilton switched to a plant-based diet and reportedly felt ‘better than ever’; Novak Djokovic turned gluten free and later won several Grand Slams. There are countless examples of champion athletes who have boosted their performance by changing their diet – so is this the right approach for you?

TIME FOR A CHANGE?

Why try a new diet? Maybe you don’t think you’re managing your weight effectively for your sport, or perhaps you haven’t seen an improvement in your fitness in months. It’s worth questioning whether you’re eating well, as data in the British Journal of Sports Medicine shows the consequences of insufficient fuel may include decreased endurance performance, reduced muscle strength, increased injury risk, poorer coordination, and even shoddier concentration. Indeed, for most athletic types, the top reason for trying a new diet is to improve sporting ability. ‘Many athletes will typically look for a performance-enhancing benefit from a new diet,’ says Dr Matthew Cole, senior lecturer in sport and exercise nutrition at Birmingham City University.

WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU?