I think we can all agree that we’ve had a touch of World Cup Fever here for the last several weeks! Cynthia’s blog may have tricked you last week with her title Denmark Wins the World Cup (of Whole Grains) about the impressive whole grain consumption in Denmark but no fooling this week: I’m here to talk about soccer … and whole grains too, of course! 

I for one have certainly had soccer, or futbol, on the brain not just because of all of the exhilarating matches that are being played but because of the massive scale of the World Cup. As any sports fan probably already knows, the World Cup is an international soccer competition, put together by the Federation Internationale de Football Association, or simply FIFA, that excites soccer fans and neophytes alike. To give a little history, the World Cup has been played every four years since 1930 (except 1942 and 1946 because of the Second World War) and currently involves thirty-two teams from all over the world. Many athletes only have one opportunity, if at all, to play in the World Cup and this is often the apex of their careers so to say these players have been preparing for this event for years is an understatement. 

And yes, that’s where whole grains come in – we’re getting to them! Soccer is truly one of the most grueling and athletically challenging sports, since players continuously sprint up and down the field (or pitch) for extended periods of time. These athletes must be in top condition and of course that means eating a well-balanced, highly efficient diet to get the 3,400 calories that may be needed on game day—about double what many sedentary adults need. Most teams hav a nutritionist who keeps track of each player’s energy output and creates individual diet plans for each team member. 

Since this year’s World Cup is being played in Brazil, far away from most of the teams’ customary creature comforts, most teams brought foods with them, and many even brought chefs to prepare the most energy-efficient, delicious, and nutritious meals. While the Italians packed protein-rich parmesan, olive oil, prosciutto, and pasta, (of course!) and team Mexico brought spicy favorites such as chile peppers and chipotles and even cactus, the American team brought whole grain favorites: oatmeal, Cheerios, and granola. 

The US team has put an emphasis on nutrition, with meals being carefully planned in collaboration with registered dietitian Danielle LaFata, so it’s no big surprise that these three items made the packing list. The athletes require foods that will provide them with sustained energy and keep them full for an extended period of time since each game lasts a whopping 90 minutes! Oats and oat flour are full of fiber, keeping players feeling full on the pitch, and helping to control blood sugar so the athletes maintain an even state of energy throughout the game. Whole grains like oats also have the added bonus of protein that helps keep muscles strong!  

Looks like Team USA is finding more whole grains locally, too, to augment the ones they packed in their bags. Want to see a whole day’s diet for the US team? We’re pleased to see whole grains woven in all over the place, including oatmeal bars, whole grain pancakes and French toast, garlic infused quinoa,  and a selection of artisan whole grain breads and rolls. A recent interview with LaFata reports she also insists the hotel chef make whole grain tortillas.

Even though we were broken-hearted at yesterday’s loss to Belgium and the end of USA’s run at this year’s World Cup, we’re really glad that whole grains helped the team play their best through several exciting games.

So whether you’re fueling up to play like a World Cup player or just to watch these exciting games, grab yourself some whole grain goodies and start cheering. GOAL! (Mallory)