What Athlete Philippa Millage Eats in a Day
800m Athlete and Scottish National Champion, Philippa Millage, tells us how she fuels her body for her busy training schedule.
Here’s what we learned:
Philippa:
Most people have the misconception that an athletes diet consists of leaves and bananas, and although it’s true that I do enjoy salads and bananas, I would not enjoy nor find any benefit of eating those things alone. To ensure I am adequately fuelled for training, I aim to hit around 2300 calories. There is no benefit to restricting my diet, as I would not have enough energy to train or go about my day to day life. Each day I try and aim for 30% protein, 25% fats and 45% carbs. To be fair I don’t often get this bang on. But as long as I am in the ball park I know I am on track.
Here is a typical day:
Breakfast:
- Protein Porridge
- Coffee
- Glass of milk
Snack (I always thought snacks were bad, but hey… it turns out they are actually an important part of an athletes day):
- Eat natural chocolate peanut bar
- Satsuma
Lunch:
- Tuna Mayo on a wholemeal roll and salad
- Popcorn (I love popcorn)
- Yogurt
- Satsuma
Snack:
- Dark chocolate
- Coffee
Dinner:
- Usually a big plate of pasta with plenty of meat and veg with a side of garlic bread
- Milk
I drink plenty of water throughout the day too
As you can see, it is pretty much a normal diet. I would however note that I don’t eat any processed foods, fast foods and don’t drink fizzy juice. All my main meals in the evening are made from scratch so I know exactly what I am eating. As long as you eat a balanced healthy diet, you can’t really go wrong. If from time to time I feel I need a packet of giant buttons or want a glass of wine I do it. I don’t restrict myself from having a wee treat from time to time.
The most important thing for me is that I have a healthy relationship with food and enjoy eating a healthy balanced diet. I don’t give myself a hard time for eating cake. Everyone needs cake from time to time.
For more tips on healthy living or to access tasty recipes, check out the latest articles from Vitality
For information on how to be rewarded for leading a healthy lifestyle with Tru Wealth and Vitality, click here