FEATURE STORIES

CHIEFS WATCH FOOD INTAKE AT CAMP

By Linda Abel
University Communications

Having one of those days when food seems to fix everything?

Have you ever thought about consuming almost 5,000 calories in one day? The Kansas City Chiefs sure have and they do it almost daily, says the University of Wisconsin-River Falls Chef James Morris.  

During their time in River Falls the Chiefs are working on a tight training schedule consisting of one to two practices a day in addition to weight lifting and meetings, which requires a great deal of energy and nourishment. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, a person should consume around 2,000 calories in one day and get an average of an hour of exercise per day at least three times a week. These 2,000 calories can be easily dispersed among breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner. Now, consider eating more than 5,000 calories in one day and not feeling as though you just got done at the state fair.

Due to the great deal of energy burning that a player does during his time on and off the field, he will need all the protein and healthy carbohydrates that he can get. If the average person were to consume this diet, he or she would become over weight and unhealthy within a matter of months. Morris explains, “Our menus we have written for the Chiefs are the best in the country. It focuses on lean proteins, fresh fish and fresh steamed vegetables. Within that we provide clean carbs and fresh fruits and berries so that the athlete will consume a healthy, balanced meal.” 

Like everyone, the Chiefs too have favorite meal options. “For breakfast they like to have a made-to-order, egg-white omelet, a beef sandwich for lunch, peppercorn crusted tenderloin and seafood for dinner and hot wings for a late night snack,” says Morris. All of these options provide a great deal of protein and a low amount of fat, giving the players enough energy to do all they can on and off the field to make the Chiefs final roster.

As far as their beverage of choice, the usual Gatorade or PowerAde can be seen on the sidelines and in the locker rooms. However, “water is always the best option before and after practice no matter how many vitamins sports drinks offer. Water revitalizes the body,” says Morris.

When asked why he serves these types of foods and beverages to the players Morris answered, “Nutrition; extensive work is typically done with the strength and conditioning coach to maximize the player’s full potential.” Most people have heard of the pre-game carbo-loaded meal, but Morris does not recommend any kind of loading before a game or practice because, “it destroys some of the work the player already did, or is about to do. Eating three balanced meals and a large late night snack is best for someone with such an active lifestyle.”

Of course the best part of the meal, dessert, has to be mentioned, but like all people who are trying to stay healthy and fit, the Chiefs do not like to eat dessert during camp.  “They enjoy chicken wings as a way to satisfy a snack craving,” commented Morris.