 We've all heard the phrase- "A healthy mind rests in a healthy body." It is a universal force that attracts all humans alike. Chess is usually seen as a game with no movement, so it is considered less like the other sports that are shown on television. However, as we learnt from Dt.Arooshi Aggarwal's session on nutrition for the chess player, the game requires equal if not more energy requirements as any other physically strenuous sport. The reason that Dt.Aggarwal pointed out was that chess demands a lot of glucose for the brain. She said that the gut (small intestine) is extremely important for the mind and brain functioning, so it is essential for chess players to concentrate on improving the gut in their bodies. She implied that our bodies have two brains- one that is very well known to be called the brain, whereas the other one that is often hidden to the public knowledge- the small intestine. The ways to enhance one's gut were to increase one's protein intake along with improving the calcium, zinc, Vitamin D, and magnesium levels in one's body.
Dt.Arooshi gave the players a plan to follow for their tournament and training routines. She also mentioned the importance of daily exercise for all, including some aerobic movements. She made the players recognise the vitality of eating small portion sizes and at regular intervals without long-breaks/gaps. She stressed upon consuming alkaline foods and having a balance between proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in one's diet. During the Q/A session, Dt.Arooshi mentioned how important it was to maintain one's hydration, especially during the long matches that a chess player is prone to playing. She focused her advice on increasing the glucose levels as one goes on to compete for the 3-4+ hours of battle on the board. She encouraged the players to take fruits like bananas with them during these games and avoid eating too much sugar or consuming heavy meals before the competition. She stressed the necessity of proper sleep for all, especially when one has to travel to foreign destinations where one finds oneself in different time zones. In fact, she said that the key to healthy nutrition for international tournament travel is to eat local foods that are famous to consume in that particular place. Overall, the session was packed with insightful information and was highly interactive, allowing the players to make the most use of their time to ask questions pertaining to their individual nutritional needs and wants. Now, one can really say why chess is an art, science, sport, and universal form of life. Thanks to Dt.Arooshi Aggarwal for conducting this session for the Project Checkmate 2.0 program organised by the All India Chess Federation of the Blind and the DR Foundation. |
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