What should the swimmers eat during a meet?

The most highly recommended drink is water, because swimmers become so dehydrated when working out hard, especially at hot, outdoor summer meets.  Sport drinks, such as Gatorade, All Sport, and Powerade, are good, as are fruit juices.  However, carbonated beverages should be avoided, as should drinks that are high in caffeine.  Avoid foods/drinks with a high content of sugar and those high in fat.  These will slow a swimmer down during races.  Swimmers should eat lightly, so that they are not weak from hunger, but are also not going to become sick from a full stomach.  Spicy foods may upset a swimmer's stomach, so look for blander snacks.  Food high in carbohydrates are great fuel sources.  Often, concession stands do not offer many healthy options, so packing your own snacks and drinks may be better for the swimmer, as well as your pocketbook.  The following are recommended snacks: