You know the old wives tale that you have to wait an hour after eating to swim. While most of us realize by now this in fact false, you should still be mindful of what you consume prior to surfing. Here are some of our recommendations for things to eat and drink prior to hitting the waves.

1. Drink Lots of Water

This goes without saying, but water is essential. Summer in Charleston can get hot, with heat indexes upwards of 100 degrees. It's important to stay hydrated. Salt water can dehydrate you. You should not only drink water between surf sessions, but also drink plenty of water prior to surfing. Nothing replaces fresh H20.

2. Bananas

If you have ever experienced the excruciating pain of cramps, you know a banana can be a lifesaver. Cramping is be due in part to low magnesium and potassium levels brought on by intense exercise. Bananas may not relieve cramps once they start, but they can help you avoid cramping prior to surfing or exercising. Be sure to eat a banana prior to hitting the waves. Avocados are another great source of potassium and are rich in healthy fats, too! 

3. Nuts, Protein Shake, and PB&Js

Nuts, protein shakes, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are great snacks to eat prior to surfing. You want to focus on light snacks with a large amount of protein to give you adequate energy for long surfing sessions. Surfing can be extremely taxing on your body, so it is important that you provide it with enough fuel necessary to endure those long sessions.

4. Avoid Large Meals Prior to Surfing

While Charleston has a ton of great restaurants to choose from, it's probably best to skip out on a super heavy meal prior to surfing. Avoid greasy foods and stick to light, refreshing options, like fresh fruits and vegetables. There is no worse feeling than being bloated on a beach.

5. Eat a Large, High Protein Meal After Surfing

After surfing, refuel with a large high protein meal. Again, surfing can take a toll on your body, so rehydrating and refueling yourself is essential. Luckily, Folly has a bunch of great options for post-surfing food and drinks. Check out some of favorite spots here.

So when it comes to what to eat and drink, it is important to be mindful of what you consume prior to surfing. Light, fresh, high protein options paired with water, are always a good choice.