(sorry this became a blog post)
“Poker is war. People pretend it is a game.” -Doyle Brunson
“Play-money” chips …It’s an odd term to use for currency that has no monetary value, but, at times, means more than real money to many of us. For others, play-money poker is just that, something for play. It’s an iPhone app, it’s something to do once a week with friends and beers.
At the other end of the spectrum are the professionals of course- Ivey, Helmuth, Negreanu, Polk, CHINO RHEEM (no relation to ChinoD that I know of )They are of course, the face of poker.
Finally, at the heart of the poker universe is you and me, the spectators and fans who became players… We’re a smart, funny, obviously good-looking, sarcastic, sometimes moody family of individuals. We are World Series of poker fans with home games, multi-generational gamblers, gamers (the Donk bettors probably), high school “Math-letes”, computer programmers, chess players tired of driving a '02 Honda Accord. (btw this post is about food at some point)
We all have 2 things in common:
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Moving to Vegas is still in the picture and,
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To us, Poker. Is. WAR …
POKER DIET
In the relentless world of online poker and long sessions at cardrooms and casinos, staying sharp is your key to success. Whether you’re grinding late into the night or battling it out in a high-stakes tournament, your nutrition matters.
Think about navigating the bubble with half your bankroll on the table and a 22 oz. ribeye digesting. Sounds amazing but your focus, your stamina, your energy - they all fade away with heavy meals made of starches, saturated fats, and other processing.
As poker players we want foods that will translate into energy, focus, and sustained energy. So, you need a special diet, a poker diet that doesn’t have to be complicated, just light and nutritious, like good old Daniel Negreanu (minus being Vegan). Here are some tips to keep you at the top of your game food list below tips:
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Caffeine Boost: A strategic cup of coffee or an energy drink can be the ace up your sleeve. Caffeine increases brain activity, keeping you alert and focused. Just remember to consume it in moderation to avoid jitters.
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Schedule Breaks: Don’t let your brain fall asleep! Take frequent breaks and physically step away from your play space. A 15-minute walk around the block can work wonders.
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Nutritious Meals & Snacks: Food is fuel. opt for fruits, nuts, and whole grains. Avoid heavy meals and sugary snacks that lead to energy crashes.
Remember, winning requires more than just strategy—it demands stamina. So, stack your chips wisely and nourish your mind and body for those intense poker sessions!
FRUIT - PRIMARY BENEFIT
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Melons -Help sustain energy by hydrating your body and fighting fatigue
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Bananas -Packed with carbohydrates and are a great and easy energy booster
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Apples -Great sources of B and C vitamins and are slow energy releasers
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Oranges -Tons of minerals, phosphorus, and a high overall energy source
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Blueberries -High in vitamin E, fiber, and antioxidants. Great memory booster
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Strawberries -Another high antioxidant, good for memory, concentration and vision
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Raspberries -High antioxidants, lowers blood sugar, and anti-inflammatory
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Olives -High in vitamin E and great brain booster
VEGETABLES/NUTS - PRIMARY BENEFIT
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Edamame -Great mix of complex carbs, fiber, protein and healthy fat to keep you sharp
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Peanuts -High in folate, healthy fats, and vitamin E. Great brain booster.
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Pecans -Loaded with beta sitosterol, good for prostrate health and sustained energy
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Broccoli -High in complex B vitamins, great for sustained energy and concentration
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Carrots -High in B vitamins that metabolize slower for sustained energy