In between Michael Phelps’s and Usain Bolt’s superhuman athletic feats at the Olympics, American fans heard a lot about their diets. We interviewed three student athletes—cross-country runner Marco Siragusa, volleyball team captain Emily Repsher, and soccer player Zach Eltorai to see how their diets compared.

What do you eat before a race/game?

Marco: I usually eat peanut butter and jelly. When you’re playing, you need something that gives you energy, goes down easy, and doesn’t give you cramps.

Zach: The night before, I usually have something with carbohydrates, like bread or pasta. On the same day as the game, I eat bananas because they help to prevent cramps.

Emily: I always eat fruit before games because they are a natural source of sugar. They also prevent side-aches and keep your energy up.

What about after?

M: I eat trail mix and drink a lot of water.

Z: Nothing in particular, but I drink a lot of water.

E: Usually something like fruit, but I always drink water.

Do you eat or drink anything on the sidelines?

Z: I usually drink Gatorade.

E: I don’t eat during a game, other than water.

What kinds of food do you think athletes in your sport should consume regularly to keep healthy?

M: Something that gives energy, with enough carbohydrates.

E: Protein and fruit are the best. They’re all healthy and have no crashes from an energy drink or something like that.

Do you eat a lighter diet when you’re running or playing?

M: Not really. I run all year, so there isn’t much of a change in my diet.

Z: I play year-round soccer, so nothing really changes.

E: I don’t eat too differently when I play, but I do burn it off during volleyball season. So I might eat more.

About how many calories do you eat on the days you compete?

M: About 2,500 calories.

Z: I eat 2,500 calories.

How often do you eat junk food?

M: Never.

Z: I try not to eat junk food.

E: Not a lot. I might make myself something like a sandwich or a salad if I’m hungry.