Why I Chose This Topic “Hailee,” Dr. Looby said, “I’m sorry to inform you, but you have a stress fracture in your right foot.” The rest of Dr. Looby’s words were drowned out as my world came crashing down around me that gloomy January day of 2016. Why me? Why now? When will I be healthy again? What did I do wrong? Dr Looby explained: “Stress fractures occur when there is too much emphasis put on one part of the body. This usually results from overuse and lack of recovery. You will have to take nine weeks off. Don’t worry too much, Hailee, you will be just fine. We will have you back and better than ever.” What I Already Know I already knew the importance of recovery to continue playing soccer to my full potential. Plus, I have been taught all the common steps of recovery: drink water, stretch, and sleep. However, I do not know how …show more content…
Water is a major determinant in how an athlete practices, performs and recovers; therefore, the necessity of drinking enough water post-match is vital. According to Dr. Riley Williams, “After a game, you’ll want to drink twenty ounces of water per pound of weight you lose during the game” (“The Importance of Post-Game Recovery Strategies for Soccer Players”). Hydration can come in many more forms than water. Specifically, athletes need more than just water. Alvey suggests consuming a sports drink with electrolytes and carbohydrates during and after the game (Albright). Sports drinks like Gatorade are a perfect way to gain the appropriate electrolytes back. Perhaps the most surprising fluid that a recovering soccer player should drink is low-fat chocolate milk: “Research suggests that low-fat chocolate milk provides the ideal three-to-one ratio of carbohydrates to protein that can help refuel and restore exhausted muscles after exertion” (Nestle and Nesquik). All in all, what athletes eat and drink increases their carbohydrate and protein levels back to their full