"Trader Diet" General Tips

Due to the overwhelming response to Bonnie Minsky's appearance on "First Business," we have summarized some general tips for Traders on how to maximize performance and focus.

1) Have a solid breakfast. This is most important. Make sure that you have lean protein in the morning with your breakfast. Think of breakfast as any other meal, not just bacon, eggs, or a bagel. Eat leftovers from dinner the night before. If you often eat family dinners at home, make sure you double what the recipe allows so you can take some in the morning. And instead of a bagel with your protein, have a banana, or some carrots. Vegetables and fruits are carbohydrates!

2) Drink water, especially with electrolytes. Thes stress and physicality of working in pits warrant lots of fluid. There are several electrolye waters on the market. I like Smart Water by Glaceau. Also, Water Joe is a caffeinated alternative to coffee.

3) Force yourself to snack during the workday. Very important for stamina. Nuts and seeds with dried fruit are my favorite because it's a perfect mixture of carb, healthy fat, and protein.

4) Do not eat carbohydrates without lean protein or healthy fats. Whether it's breakfast, snack, lunch or dinner, eating a carb with healthy fat or lean protein will prevent the ebb and flow of blood sugar, the main reason we get the "afternoon swoon."

5) Supplement with Magnesium and Co-Enzyme Q10 (CoQ10). 100-200mg magnesium and 60-100mg CoQ10 will help greatly with focus and stress-management. They dont' call magnesium "Nature's Valium" for nothing! Brands vary so make sure you are getting high quality.

For more details, go to nutritionalconcepts.com. Our Circle of Health Food Chart is a great resource for the good and bad foods. Or for an individualized diet, contact our office at 847-498-3422.

Have a happy, healthy day.

Bonnie and Steve