Nutrition Marketing versus Reality

There are many foods out there that you see the packaging of and chuckle a bit because you know it is so outrageous to be healthy. Take Swedish fish, for example. One of my guilty pleasures promotes on the packaging that it is “fat-free.” Unfortunately, the beloved marketing of the 90s and the generational hatred of fat went so far as to make candy seem a better option. No matter how much I love these little guys, I know they may be fat-free, but that makes them far from healthy for me to add as a consistent part of my daily diet, no matter how much I may want to.

The newest marketing is to push “high protein,” “natural,” and “organic” options. But, much like a magician, the marketing teams for much of the food industry seem to use sleight of hand. This marketing makes us focus on one detail while ignoring what the other hand is doing.

One of the products that first pinged my radar was the Kodiak Cakes pancake mix. I have often heard people say they are making a better choice by eating more protein. So, of course, you are consuming more protein, but when the serving size is equal, you get the following calorie count:

 

Aunt Jemima Pancake/Waffle 

Kodiak Cakes

Carbohydrates (grams)

34.6

31

Protein (grams)

4

14

Total Calories

174

250

 

I point this out because we often search for a more protein-rich option to be more filling. However, if we are not careful, it would mean that we could mistakenly consume 40% more calories by eating the “healthier” option.

So, as you focus on your nutrition, whether for health, weight loss, or simply trying to change your macronutrient percentages, pay attention to the details, not the marketing.

Cycling Group Ride Etiquette

We receive many questions and concerns from newer cyclists regarding the dynamics and etiquette of their first group ride or mass start event. Luckily, both of these scenarios are handled very similarly. These articles can provide the insight you may need to help you feel more confident the first time you join a group of cyclists, you may not be familiar with!

 

First time on a new Group Ride – The title says it all; if you are a first-timer in a group setting, you can follow these pointers to reduce stress and have a great time!

 

Group Riding 101 – Okay, it isn’t your first rodeo, but you don’t want to be a fly on the wall and would like to work with others? Perfect, here are some basics of how to rotate through properly

 

Group Riding 201 – Feeling pretty confident now? That is great! It is time to improve your skillset and start working like a well-oiled machine while conserving energy. Learn the basics of a paceline here.

 

Group Riding 301 – If you have made it through the first three articles and are still with us, then maybe you are one of “the fast guys” in your community, have some race experience, are interested in racing, or like watching the pro tour races and want a better understanding of the dynamics of echelons and double pacelines. Here is your chance!

 

 

Have a question you would like answered? Then, let us know; we are here for you, the athlete!