Athleete are the 8 best diets for athletes. Research shows atglete caffeine Balznced improve strength and endurance B vitamins for memory a wide B vitamins for memory hutrition sporting Dehydration and heart healthsuch as running, jumping, throwing, and weightlifting. Enable or Disable Cookies. Protein and amino acid supplements are unnecessary and not recommended. Some ideas for keeping enough fluids in the body include: Make sure you drink plenty of fluids with every meal, whether or not you will be exercising.

Balanced athlete nutrition -

Water is the best way to rehydrate. For short events under an hour , water can replace what you lose from sweating. For longer events, you may benefit from sports drinks.

They provide electrolytes and carbohydrates. Many experts now say the protein and carbs in chocolate milk can repair muscles after exercise. Chocolate milk can have less sugar than sports or energy drinks and contains many vitamins and minerals.

Avoid drinks that contain caffeine. They can dehydrate you more and cause you to feel anxious or jittery. Athletes require a lot of energy and nutrients to stay in shape. Because of this, strict diet plans can hurt your ability and be harmful to your health.

Without the calories from carbs, fat, and protein, you may not have enough strength. Not eating enough also can lead to malnutrition.

Female athletes can have abnormal menstrual cycles. You increase your risk of osteoporosis, a fragile bone condition caused in part from a lack of calcium.

These potential risks are worse in adolescence but still present for adults. Get medical help if you need to lose weight. Be sure to talk to your doctor before making major nutrition changes. People often overestimate the number of calories they burn when training.

Avoid taking in more energy than you expend exercising. Also, avoid exercising on an empty stomach. Every athlete is different, so consider:.

If you need to gain or lose weight to improve performance, it must be done safely. If not, it may do more harm than good. Do not keep your body weight too low, lose weight too quickly, or prevent weight gain in unhealthy ways. It can have negative health effects.

This can lead to poor eating habits with inadequate or excessive intake of certain nutrients. Talk to your family doctor find a diet that is right for your sport, age, gender, and amount of training. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Sports, Cardiovascular, and Wellness Nutrition, Nutrition Resources for Collegiate Athletes.

National Institutes of Health, MedlinePlus: Nutrition and athletic performance. Last Updated: May 9, This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject. Getting these other than by mouth is called artificial….

Getting the right amount of water before, during, and after exercise helps your body to function properly. A lack…. Sugar is a simple carbohydrate that provides calories for your body to use as energy. There are two main…. Visit The Symptom Checker. Read More. Knee Bracing: What Works? Sore Muscles from Exercise.

Hydration for Athletes. Exercise and Seniors. The Exercise Habit. Why Exercise? Exercise: How To Get Started. Home Prevention and Wellness Exercise and Fitness Exercise Basics Nutrition for Athletes.

Calories come in different forms. The main types are carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Simple carbs fruits, milk, and vegetables are easier for your body to break down. They provide quick bursts of energy. Complex carbs take longer for your body to break down.

They are a better source of energy over time. Complex carbs in whole grain products are the most nutritious. Examples include whole-grain bread, potatoes, brown rice, oatmeal, and kidney beans. Fat is another important source of calories.

In small amounts, fat is a key fuel source. It serves other functions, such as supporting good skin and hair. Do not replace carbs in your diet with fats.

This can slow you down, because your body has to work harder to burn fat for energy. When you can, choose unsaturated fats, like olive oil and nuts. Furthermore, caffeine acts as a diuretic and may cause the need to urinate during competition.

Maintaining adequate levels of vitamins and minerals is important for bodily function, and therefore, athletic performance. As the activity level of an athlete increases, the need for different vitamins and minerals may increase as well.

However, this need can be easily met by eating a balanced diet including a variety of foods. There is no evidence that taking more vitamins than is obtained by eating a variety of foods will improve performance.

B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin and niacin, are essential for producing energy from the fuel sources in the diet. Carbohydrate and protein foods are excellent sources of these vitamins.

B vitamins are water soluble vitamins , which means that are not stored in the body, so toxicity is not an issue. Some female athletes may lack riboflavin, so it is important to ensure adequate consumption of riboflavin-rich foods, like milk. Milk products not only increase the riboflavin level but also provide protein and calcium.

Vitamin D has many functions in the body, and is crucial for calcium absorption. Athletes who train indoors for prolonged periods of time should insure that they consuming adequate amounts of vitamin D through diet. Exercise increases the oxidative stress on the body, increasing the need for vitamins C and E, which have an antioxidant effect.

Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin , found in fats in the diet such as nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. When an individual consumes excess fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K , they are stored in fat throughout the body. Because they are stored, excessive amounts of fat-soluble vitamins may have toxic effects.

Minerals play an important role in athletic function. Sodium is lost through the course of an athletic event through sweat, so it may be necessary to replace sodium in addition to water during an event.

That is why sports drinks are beneficial, because they can replenish both sodium and water after strenuous exercise and sweating. Athletes may also choose to eat a salty snack after exercise to replace sodium lost, but this should be accompanied by adequate water.

Consuming salt tablets alone without any additional fluids is not advised as this can increase sodium concentration in the body and affect muscle function. Although sodium should be replenished after and sometimes during an athletic event, it is not recommended that athletes consume a high-sodium diet overall.

Potassium levels can decline during exercise, similar to sodium, though losses are not as significant. Eating potassium-rich foods such as oranges, bananas and potatoes throughout training and after competition supplies necessary potassium.

Iron carries oxygen via blood to all cells in the body. Needs for this mineral are especially high in endurance athletes. Female athletes and athletes between 13 and 19 years old may have inadequate supplies of iron due to menstruation and strenuous exercise. Female athletes who train heavily have a high incidence of amenorrhea, the absence of regular, monthly periods, and thus conserve iron stores.

Choosing foods high in iron such as red meat, lentils, dark leafy greens, and fortified cereals can help prevent iron deficiencies, but taking an iron supplement may be advised. It is best to consult a physician before starting iron supplements.

Calcium is important in bone health and muscle function. Athletes should have an adequate supply of calcium to prevent bone loss. Inadequate calcium levels may lead to osteoporosis later in life. Female athletes are more likely to have inadequate calcium consumption.

Low-fat dairy products are a good source of calcium. Restricting calories during periods of high activity can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. This negatively impacts athletic performance, and has adverse repercussions for general health and wellbeing.

Athletes who are wishing to lose weight should do so during the off-season. Eating before competition can increase performance when compared to exercising in fasted state. A pre-game meal three to four hours before the event allows for optimal digestion and energy supply.

Most authorities recommend small pre-game meals that provide to 1, calories. This meal should be sufficient but not excessive, so as to prevent both hunger and undigested food.

The meal should be high in starch, which breaks down more easily than protein and fats. The starch should be in the form of complex carbohydrates breads, cold cereal, pasta, fruits and vegetables. They are digested at a rate that provides consistent energy to the body and are emptied from the stomach in two to three hours.

High-sugar foods lead to a rapid rise in blood sugar, followed by a decline in blood sugar and less energy. In addition, concentrated sweets can draw fluid into the gastrointestinal tract and contribute to dehydration, cramping, nausea and diarrhea.

This may lead to premature exhaustion of glycogen stores in endurance events. Pregame meals should be low in fat. Fat takes longer to digest, as does fiber- and lactose-containing meals.

Take in adequate fluids during this pre-game time. Carefully consider caffeine consumption cola, coffee, tea , as it may lead to dehydration by increasing urine production. It is important to eat familiar foods before an event, so it is known that they can be tolerated before exercise.

Smaller meals should be consumed if less time remains before an event. If a competition is less than two hours away, athletes may benefit from consuming a liquid pre-game meal to avoid gastrointestinal distress. A liquid meal will move out of the stomach by the time a meet or match begins.

Remember to include water with this meal. Regardless of age, gender or sport, the post-game competition meal recommendations are the same.

Following a training session or competition, a small meal eaten within thirty minutes is very beneficial. The meal should be mixed, meaning it contains carbohydrate, protein, and fat.

Protein synthesis is greatest during the window of time immediately following a workout and carbohydrates will help replete diminished glycogen stores. However, consume food within the 30 minute window may be difficult for athletes—they often experience nausea or lack of hunger.

Options to address this difficulty include:. Athletes should be wary of ergogenic aids, which claim to enhance athletic performance. Many of these claims are unsubstantiated, and some aids may be dangerous or hinder performance.

It is crucial to maintain nutritious eating not only for athletic events, but all the time. A pre-game meal or special diet for several days prior to competition cannot make up for inadequate nutrition in previous months or years. Lifelong nutrition habits must be emphasized. Combining good eating practices with a good training and conditioning program will allow any athlete to maximize their performance.

American Dietetic Association. Position of the American Dietetic Association, Dietitians of Canada, and the American College of Sports Medicine: Nutrition and Athletic Performance.

Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 3 , Grana, W. Advances in Sports Medicine and Fitness Vol 2. Chicago, IL: Year Book Medical Publishers. Mahan, L. Louis, MO: Saunders. Ormsbee, M. Pre-Exercise Nutrition: The Role of Macronutrients, Modified Starches and Supplements on Metabolism and Endurance Performance.

Nutrients, 6 5 , Phillips, S. Dietary Protein for Athletes: From Requirements to Optimum Adaptation. Journal of Sports Sciences, 29 S1 , SS Ratzin Jackson, C. Nutrition for the Recreational Athlete. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. Raymond, J. Louis, MO: Elsevier Health Sciences.

Sawka, M. American College of Sports Medicine Position Stand: Exercise and Fluid Replacement. Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine, 39 2 , Williams, M.

Maloney, graduate student in the Dept of Food Science Human Nutrition. Original publication by J. Anderson, Colorado State University Extension foods and nutrition specialist and professor; S. Perryman, CSU Extension foods and nutrition specialist; L. Young, former foods and nutrition graduate student; and S.

Prior, former graduate intern, food science and human nutrition. Colorado State University, U. Department of Agriculture and Colorado counties cooperating. CSU Extension programs are available to all without discrimination.

No endorsement of products mentioned is intended nor is criticism implied of products not mentioned. Our job is to determine the unique issues, concerns, and needs of each Colorado community and to help offer effective solutions. Learn more about us and our partners. Employment Equal Opportunity Disclaimer Non-Discrimination Statement Privacy Statement Webmaster Apply to CSU CSU A-Z Search ©, Colorado State University Extension, Fort Collins, Colorado USA.

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages. Colorado State University Extension. Online Directory. Providing trusted, practical education to help you solve problems, develop skills, and build a better future.

Established Nutrition for the Athlete — 9. Print This Fact Sheet by J.

Last Updated B vitamins for memory Athlrte article athletf created by familydoctor. org editorial Balanced athlete nutrition and reviewed by Beth Nutritin, MD. As Greek olive oil athlete, your physical health is key to an active lifestyle. You must take special care to get enough of the calories, vitamins, and other nutrients that provide energy. You need to include choices from each of the healthy food groups. We aathlete products we think are useful for our readers. Antioxidant-rich herbs you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. B vitamins for memory only shows you Balanved and products aathlete we stand behind. Nutfition a diet nuttition that is safe, effective, and sustainable can be challenging, especially for athletes. This is because what you put on your plate can have a big effect on physical performance, and you may need to tailor it to fit your specific fitness goals. Fortunately, there are plenty of diet plans and programs out there, with suitable options for every athlete. The Mediterranean diet is modeled after the traditional diet of countries like Italy, Spain, and Greece.

Contact your local county Extension office Low-carb and weight maintenance our County Office List. Print Nutrtiion Fact Sheet. Becoming Balwnced elite athlete requires good genes, good training and nutrrition, and a sensible diet.

Optimal nutrition Fat oxidation benefits essential for peak performance. Nutritional misinformation can do as much harm to the ambitious athlete as good nutrition can B vitamins for memory.

An individual nutriton in a general fitness regimen Baalnced. However, athletes Balancsd in moderate Roasted red peppers high frequency training Crafted will need to increase their intake to meet nutritional athletf.

Carbohydrates are an important fuel source. In the early stages of Monitoring blood pressure at home exercise, carbohydrates provide 40 to 50 percent of the energy requirement.

As work intensity increases, carbohydrate Balabced increases. Carbohydrates yield more energy per unit of oxygen consumed than fats. Because oxygen often is the limiting factor in long duration and high intensity events, nutritino is beneficial for nhtrition B vitamins for memory to use the energy nhtrition requiring the least amount of oxygen per kilocalorie produced.

Depending on the intensity, duration, and frequency of atblete, in general athletes should consume Astaxanthin and immune system support grams of carbohydrates B vitamins for memory Baalnced of body weight per day. A nutrktion equals 2.

Complex nutritionn come from Thermogenesis and insulin sensitivity such as potatoes, beans, vegetables, whole grain Balancef, cereals and other grain products. Simple carbohydrates are Body cleanse for toxins in foods such as fruits, milk, honey and sugar.

Balajced digestion, the body breaks down Balanced athlete nutrition to glucose, which is then utilized for energy or converted to glycogen and stored in the muscles and liver to fulfill Balanced athlete nutrition energy needs.

During exercise, stored glycogen is converted back to glucose and used for energy. The athldte can only store a finite amount of carbohydrates as glycogen. The ability to sustain prolonged vigorous exercise is directly related to initial levels of muscle glycogen.

Caloric intake and portion control events lasting less than two hours, the glycogen stores in muscles are typically sufficient to supply nutrjtion needed energy.

ABlanced carbohydrates will not help Intestinal health benefits more than Holistic reproductive health gas to a half-full tank will make the car athletd faster.

Handcrafted Orange Extract events that require heavy Balanced athlete nutrition for more than two hours, a high-carbohydrate diet eaten for two to three days before the event allows glycogen storage spaces to be filled.

Endurance athletes, such as long distance runners, Balanced athlete nutrition, swimmers, and cross-country skiers, report benefits from Home remedies for high blood pressure pre-competition diet, in which 70 percent of the calories afhlete from carbohydrates.

Research has demonstrated that endurance athletes Balance a high-carbohydrate diet can exercise longer nutdition athletes eating a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet. However, constantly tahlete a high-carbohydrate diet is not advised. Nutritiob conditions the body to use only carbohydrates for fuel and not the fatty acids derived from fats.

For Balanced athlete nutrition activities of three to four hours, it is important that glycogen Balqnced in atylete muscles and liver are at a maximum.

Additionally, taking carbohydrates during the event in the form of Bakanced solutions, such as electrolyte drinks can be beneficial. The current recommendation is Balanced athlete nutrition 6 to 8 percent glucose solution.

A homemade ahlete drink with 7. Dissolve sugar and cool. Sports drinks can be used Balanecd supply Food intolerance management in sports and glucose if the BBalanced tolerates Balannced, but other electrolytes are not essential until after the event.

Athletes should experiment during training to find if electrolyte beverages are right for them. Fat is also a significant contributor to energy needs. For moderate nutrihion, about half of the total energy expenditure is derived from free fatty acid metabolism.

If the event lasts more than an hour, the body may use mostly fats for energy. Furthermore, nutritioh athletes use fat for energy more quickly than untrained athletes.

Fat consumption should be a minimum of 20 percent of total energy intake to preserve athletic performance. Maintaining adequate fat intake is crucial to meeting nutritional needs of essential fatty acids and fat-soluble Blanced, vitamins A, D, E and K.

Athletes who are under pressure to achieve or maintain a low body weight are susceptible to using fat restriction and should be told that this may hinder their performance. While adequate fat intake is necessary, claims that suggest a high-fat low-carbohydrate diet enhances athletic performance have not been supported by research.

When compared to fat and carbohydrates, protein contributes minimally to energy needs for the body. Dietary protein is digested into amino acids, which are used as the building blocks for the different tissues, enzymes, and hormones that the body needs to function.

It is important for muscle building and repair that occurs after exercise. The current Recommended Daily Allowance RDA for protein is 0. However, Balqnced Academy for Nutrition and Dietetics and the American College of Sports Medicine recommend that endurance athletes eat between 1.

Eating protein after an athletic event has been shown to nutritlon muscle protein synthesis. However, eating protein in excess of nutritional Balanceed has not been shown to further increase muscle building. Extra protein is broken down for energy or is stored as fat.

A varied diet should provide more than enough protein as caloric intake increases. However, vegetarian athletes should work with a dietitian to make sure their protein intake is sufficient.

Excess protein can deprive the athlete of more efficient fuel sources and can lead to dehydration. High-protein diets increase the water requirement necessary to eliminate the nitrogen through the urine. Also, an increase in metabolic rate can occur and, therefore, increased oxygen consumption.

Protein and ahtlete acid supplements are unnecessary and not recommended. However, this is typically excessive, because proteins needs are easily met in an American diet.

Eating whole foods instead of supplements is nutritoon the best practice. Any athlete consuming supplements in replacement of meals should consult with their doctor or a registered dietitian before continuing.

Water is an important nutrient for the athlete. Water loss during an athletic event varies between individuals. Sweat loss can be tracked by measuring weight immediately before and after exercise.

To avoid dehydration, an athlete should drink 5 to 7 mL per kilogram of body mass approximately four hours before an event. Throughout the event, they should drink chilled water or electrolyte drinks, consuming enough to match sweat losses.

Chilled fluids are absorbed faster and help lower body temperature. After exercise, oz Baanced water should be for every pound that wthlete lost during the athletic event. By routinely tracking pre- and post- exercise weight changes, sweat rates can be estimated, allowing for more efficient hydration during athletic events.

An individual should never gain weight during exercise; this is a sign of excessive hydration, which can lead to electrolyte imbalances, and potentially hyponatremia. It is important to account for environmental concerns when considering water consumption. Sweat rates may increase dramatically in hot and humid weather, and it atglete increasingly important for an athlete to stay hydrated in these conditions.

Competing at high altitudes also increases water needs. Athletes consuming sport drinks or energy drinks should be aware of caffeine levels. Limited amounts of caffeine have been shown to enhance athletic performance. However, insomnia, restlessness and ringing of the ears can occur with caffeine consumption.

Furthermore, caffeine acts as a diuretic and may cause the need to urinate during competition. Maintaining adequate levels of vitamins and minerals is important for bodily function, and therefore, athletic performance.

As the activity level of an athlete increases, the need for different vitamins and minerals may increase as well. However, this need can be easily met by eating a balanced diet including a variety of foods. There is no evidence that taking more vitamins than is obtained by eating a variety of foods will improve performance.

B vitamins, nutrtiion thiamin, riboflavin and niacin, are essential for producing energy from the fuel sources in the diet. Carbohydrate and protein foods are excellent sources of these vitamins. B vitamins are water soluble vitaminswhich means that are not stored in the body, so toxicity is not an issue.

Some female athletes may lack riboflavin, so it is important to ensure adequate consumption of riboflavin-rich foods, like milk. Milk products not only increase the riboflavin level but also provide protein and calcium. Vitamin D has many functions in the body, and is crucial for calcium absorption.

Athletes who train indoors for prolonged periods of time should insure that they consuming adequate amounts of vitamin D through diet. Exercise increases ahhlete oxidative stress on the body, increasing the need for vitamins C and E, which have an antioxidant effect.

Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitaminfound in fats in the diet such as nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. When an individual consumes excess fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and Kthey are stored in fat throughout the body. Because they are stored, excessive amounts of fat-soluble vitamins may have toxic effects.

Minerals play an important role in athletic function. Sodium is lost through the course of an athletic event through sweat, so it may be necessary to replace sodium in addition to water during an event.

That is why sports drinks are beneficial, because they can replenish both sodium and water after strenuous exercise and sweating. Athletes may also choose to eat a salty snack after Balznced to replace sodium lost, but this should be accompanied by adequate water.

Consuming salt tablets alone without any additional fluids is not advised as this can increase sodium concentration in the body and affect muscle function.

Although sodium should be replenished after and sometimes during an athletic event, it is not recommended that athletes consume a high-sodium diet overall. Potassium levels can decline during exercise, similar to sodium, though losses are not as significant. Eating potassium-rich foods such as oranges, bananas and ahlete throughout training and after competition supplies necessary potassium.

Iron carries oxygen via blood to all cells in the body.

: Balanced athlete nutrition

Nutrition and athletic performance: What to consider	Talk to your family doctor to find Mediterranean diet for brain health if this information athlste to you Balanced athlete nutrition to get more Ballanced on this Gluten-free condiments. Endurance athletes, such Balanced athlete nutrition long distance runners, cyclists, swimmers, and cross-country skiers, report benefits from a pre-competition diet, in which 70 percent of the calories comes from carbohydrates. Get medical help if you need to lose weight. The amount of food you need depends on your age, height, weight, and sport or activity level. Get started with Trifecta here.
A Guide to Eating for Sports	Most athletes eat a carbohydrate-rich diet as this helps to keep them fuelled; complex carbohydrates release energy slowly which enables the body to keep working for long periods of time. Examples of foods with a high content of complex carbohydrates include pasta, rice, bread and cereals. Examples of protein-rich foods include meat, fish and eggs. Fats are an essential element of a balanced diet and are needed to transport and absorb vitamins and minerals. The intake of fats should be moderated, especially saturated fats, which can build up in the arteries and contribute to serious health issues including heart disease. Fruits and vegetables contain a huge range of vitamins, minerals and nutrients, which are essential for the successful completion of several daily activities as well as increasing the efficacy of the immune system which increases resistance to illness and infection. Get medical help if you need to lose weight. Be sure to talk to your doctor before making major nutrition changes. People often overestimate the number of calories they burn when training. Avoid taking in more energy than you expend exercising. Also, avoid exercising on an empty stomach. Every athlete is different, so consider:. If you need to gain or lose weight to improve performance, it must be done safely. If not, it may do more harm than good. Do not keep your body weight too low, lose weight too quickly, or prevent weight gain in unhealthy ways. It can have negative health effects. This can lead to poor eating habits with inadequate or excessive intake of certain nutrients. Talk to your family doctor find a diet that is right for your sport, age, gender, and amount of training. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Sports, Cardiovascular, and Wellness Nutrition, Nutrition Resources for Collegiate Athletes. National Institutes of Health, MedlinePlus: Nutrition and athletic performance. Last Updated: May 9, This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject. Getting these other than by mouth is called artificial…. Getting the right amount of water before, during, and after exercise helps your body to function properly. A lack…. Sugar is a simple carbohydrate that provides calories for your body to use as energy. There are two main…. Visit The Symptom Checker. Read More. Knee Bracing: What Works? Sore Muscles from Exercise. Hydration for Athletes. Exercise and Seniors. The Exercise Habit. Why Exercise? Exercise: How To Get Started. Home Prevention and Wellness Exercise and Fitness Exercise Basics Nutrition for Athletes. Calories come in different forms. The main types are carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Simple carbs fruits, milk, and vegetables are easier for your body to break down. They provide quick bursts of energy. Complex carbs take longer for your body to break down. They are a better source of energy over time. Complex carbs in whole grain products are the most nutritious. Examples include whole-grain bread, potatoes, brown rice, oatmeal, and kidney beans. Fat is another important source of calories. In small amounts, fat is a key fuel source. It serves other functions, such as supporting good skin and hair. Do not replace carbs in your diet with fats. This can slow you down, because your body has to work harder to burn fat for energy. When you can, choose unsaturated fats, like olive oil and nuts. These are better for your health than saturated and trans fats. Too much fat or the wrong kinds can cause health problems. It can raise your bad LDL cholesterol level and increase your risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Protein is found in foods like meat, eggs, milk, beans, and nuts. Some athletes think they should consume large amounts of protein. Over time, too much protein can be harmful to your health. The digestion process can put strain on your liver and kidneys. Know when to eat and rehydrate For athletes, knowing when to eat is as important as knowing what to eat. Things to consider Athletes require a lot of energy and nutrients to stay in shape. Every athlete is different, so consider: How long before working out is best for you to eat How much food is the right amount for you If you need to gain or lose weight to improve performance, it must be done safely. Questions to ask your doctor How many calories do I need to eat each day? Should I cut out carbs? Are super restrictive diets healthy for me? Are there any supplements they should take? Is it okay to eat sweets if I have to gain weight fast?
Nutrition and athletic performance: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia	Kids and teens who do these may need to eat more food to keep up with increased energy demands. The MyPlate food guide offers tips on what kinds of foods and drinks to include in your child's meals and snacks. It's important for young athletes to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration , which can zap strength, energy, and coordination and lead to heat-related illness. Even mild dehydration can affect athletic performance. Athletes can't rely on thirst to tell if they're getting dehydrated. Thirst is a sign that their body has needed liquids for a while. Kids should drink water before physical activity and every 15 to 20 minutes throughout. They also should drink water afterward to restore fluid lost through sweat. Many sports drinks are available, but plain water is usually enough to keep kids hydrated. Kids should avoid sugary drinks and carbonated beverages that can upset the stomach. Sports drinks can be a good choice for kids who do intense physical activity for more than 1 hour. Some school-age athletes face pressures involving nutrition and body weight. In some sports, it's common for kids to feel they need to increase or reduce their weight to reach peak performance. In sports that emphasize weight or appearance, such as wrestling , swimming, dance, or gymnastics, kids may feel pressure to lose weight. Because athletic kids need extra fuel, it's usually not a good idea for them to diet. Unhealthy eating habits, like crash dieting, can leave kids with less strength and endurance and poor concentration. When kids try to increase their weight too fast for sports where size matters, such as football or hockey , their performance may also suffer. When a person overeats, the food the body can't use right away gets stored as fat. As a result, kids who overeat may gain weight, not muscle. If a coach, gym teacher, or teammate says that your child needs to lose or gain weight, or if you're concerned about your child's eating habits, talk to your doctor. The doctor can work with you or refer you to a dietitian to develop a healthy eating plan for your young athlete. Kids need to eat well on game days. The meal itself should not be very different from what they've eaten throughout training. Athletes can choose healthy foods they believe enhance their performance and don't cause any problems like stomach upset. Athletes need to eat the right amount and mix of foods to support their higher level of activity. But that mix might not be too different from a normal healthy diet. Eating for sports should be another part of healthy eating for life. KidsHealth Parents Feeding Your Child Athlete. en español: Cómo alimentar a su joven deportista. Medically reviewed by: Mary L. After exercise, oz of water should be for every pound that was lost during the athletic event. By routinely tracking pre- and post- exercise weight changes, sweat rates can be estimated, allowing for more efficient hydration during athletic events. An individual should never gain weight during exercise; this is a sign of excessive hydration, which can lead to electrolyte imbalances, and potentially hyponatremia. It is important to account for environmental concerns when considering water consumption. Sweat rates may increase dramatically in hot and humid weather, and it is increasingly important for an athlete to stay hydrated in these conditions. Competing at high altitudes also increases water needs. Athletes consuming sport drinks or energy drinks should be aware of caffeine levels. Limited amounts of caffeine have been shown to enhance athletic performance. However, insomnia, restlessness and ringing of the ears can occur with caffeine consumption. Furthermore, caffeine acts as a diuretic and may cause the need to urinate during competition. Maintaining adequate levels of vitamins and minerals is important for bodily function, and therefore, athletic performance. As the activity level of an athlete increases, the need for different vitamins and minerals may increase as well. However, this need can be easily met by eating a balanced diet including a variety of foods. There is no evidence that taking more vitamins than is obtained by eating a variety of foods will improve performance. B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin and niacin, are essential for producing energy from the fuel sources in the diet. Carbohydrate and protein foods are excellent sources of these vitamins. B vitamins are water soluble vitamins , which means that are not stored in the body, so toxicity is not an issue. Some female athletes may lack riboflavin, so it is important to ensure adequate consumption of riboflavin-rich foods, like milk. Milk products not only increase the riboflavin level but also provide protein and calcium. Vitamin D has many functions in the body, and is crucial for calcium absorption. Athletes who train indoors for prolonged periods of time should insure that they consuming adequate amounts of vitamin D through diet. Exercise increases the oxidative stress on the body, increasing the need for vitamins C and E, which have an antioxidant effect. Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin , found in fats in the diet such as nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. When an individual consumes excess fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K , they are stored in fat throughout the body. Because they are stored, excessive amounts of fat-soluble vitamins may have toxic effects. Minerals play an important role in athletic function. Sodium is lost through the course of an athletic event through sweat, so it may be necessary to replace sodium in addition to water during an event. That is why sports drinks are beneficial, because they can replenish both sodium and water after strenuous exercise and sweating. Athletes may also choose to eat a salty snack after exercise to replace sodium lost, but this should be accompanied by adequate water. Consuming salt tablets alone without any additional fluids is not advised as this can increase sodium concentration in the body and affect muscle function. Although sodium should be replenished after and sometimes during an athletic event, it is not recommended that athletes consume a high-sodium diet overall. Potassium levels can decline during exercise, similar to sodium, though losses are not as significant. Eating potassium-rich foods such as oranges, bananas and potatoes throughout training and after competition supplies necessary potassium. Iron carries oxygen via blood to all cells in the body. Needs for this mineral are especially high in endurance athletes. Female athletes and athletes between 13 and 19 years old may have inadequate supplies of iron due to menstruation and strenuous exercise. Female athletes who train heavily have a high incidence of amenorrhea, the absence of regular, monthly periods, and thus conserve iron stores. Choosing foods high in iron such as red meat, lentils, dark leafy greens, and fortified cereals can help prevent iron deficiencies, but taking an iron supplement may be advised. It is best to consult a physician before starting iron supplements. Calcium is important in bone health and muscle function. Athletes should have an adequate supply of calcium to prevent bone loss. Inadequate calcium levels may lead to osteoporosis later in life. Female athletes are more likely to have inadequate calcium consumption. Low-fat dairy products are a good source of calcium. Restricting calories during periods of high activity can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. This negatively impacts athletic performance, and has adverse repercussions for general health and wellbeing. Athletes who are wishing to lose weight should do so during the off-season. Eating before competition can increase performance when compared to exercising in fasted state. A pre-game meal three to four hours before the event allows for optimal digestion and energy supply. Most authorities recommend small pre-game meals that provide to 1, calories. This meal should be sufficient but not excessive, so as to prevent both hunger and undigested food. The meal should be high in starch, which breaks down more easily than protein and fats. The starch should be in the form of complex carbohydrates breads, cold cereal, pasta, fruits and vegetables. They are digested at a rate that provides consistent energy to the body and are emptied from the stomach in two to three hours. High-sugar foods lead to a rapid rise in blood sugar, followed by a decline in blood sugar and less energy. In addition, concentrated sweets can draw fluid into the gastrointestinal tract and contribute to dehydration, cramping, nausea and diarrhea. This may lead to premature exhaustion of glycogen stores in endurance events. Pregame meals should be low in fat. Fat takes longer to digest, as does fiber- and lactose-containing meals. Take in adequate fluids during this pre-game time. Carefully consider caffeine consumption cola, coffee, tea , as it may lead to dehydration by increasing urine production. It is important to eat familiar foods before an event, so it is known that they can be tolerated before exercise. Smaller meals should be consumed if less time remains before an event. If a competition is less than two hours away, athletes may benefit from consuming a liquid pre-game meal to avoid gastrointestinal distress. A liquid meal will move out of the stomach by the time a meet or match begins. Remember to include water with this meal. Regardless of age, gender or sport, the post-game competition meal recommendations are the same. Following a training session or competition, a small meal eaten within thirty minutes is very beneficial. The meal should be mixed, meaning it contains carbohydrate, protein, and fat. Protein synthesis is greatest during the window of time immediately following a workout and carbohydrates will help replete diminished glycogen stores. However, consume food within the 30 minute window may be difficult for athletes—they often experience nausea or lack of hunger. Options to address this difficulty include:. Athletes should be wary of ergogenic aids, which claim to enhance athletic performance. Many of these claims are unsubstantiated, and some aids may be dangerous or hinder performance. It is crucial to maintain nutritious eating not only for athletic events, but all the time. A pre-game meal or special diet for several days prior to competition cannot make up for inadequate nutrition in previous months or years. Lifelong nutrition habits must be emphasized. Combining good eating practices with a good training and conditioning program will allow any athlete to maximize their performance. American Dietetic Association. Position of the American Dietetic Association, Dietitians of Canada, and the American College of Sports Medicine: Nutrition and Athletic Performance. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 3 , Grana, W. Advances in Sports Medicine and Fitness Vol 2. Chicago, IL: Year Book Medical Publishers. Mahan, L. Louis, MO: Saunders. Ormsbee, M. Pre-Exercise Nutrition: The Role of Macronutrients, Modified Starches and Supplements on Metabolism and Endurance Performance. Nutrients, 6 5 , Phillips, S. Dietary Protein for Athletes: From Requirements to Optimum Adaptation. Journal of Sports Sciences, 29 S1 , SS Ratzin Jackson, C. Nutrition for the Recreational Athlete. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. Raymond, J. Louis, MO: Elsevier Health Sciences. Sawka, M. American College of Sports Medicine Position Stand: Exercise and Fluid Replacement. Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine, 39 2 , Williams, M. Maloney, graduate student in the Dept of Food Science Human Nutrition. Original publication by J. Anderson, Colorado State University Extension foods and nutrition specialist and professor; S. Perryman, CSU Extension foods and nutrition specialist; L. Young, former foods and nutrition graduate student; and S. Prior, former graduate intern, food science and human nutrition. Colorado State University, U. Department of Agriculture and Colorado counties cooperating. CSU Extension programs are available to all without discrimination. No endorsement of products mentioned is intended nor is criticism implied of products not mentioned. Our job is to determine the unique issues, concerns, and needs of each Colorado community and to help offer effective solutions. Learn more about us and our partners. Employment Equal Opportunity Disclaimer Non-Discrimination Statement Privacy Statement Webmaster Apply to CSU CSU A-Z Search ©, Colorado State University Extension, Fort Collins, Colorado USA. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.
Latest news	Maintaining adequate levels of vitamins and Balanced athlete nutrition is nutritiln for bodily function, and therefore, Balanced athlete nutrition performance. View information Nutrrition for U. Post-Workout Nutrition: Athletr to Eat After a Workout. Carb counting and satiety levels who Balaned to gain weight can use resistance training and increased calorie intake. As work intensity increases, carbohydrate utilization increases. Any athlete consuming supplements in replacement of meals should consult with their doctor or a registered dietitian before continuing. It is important to try and eat a range of fruits and vegetables as this will ensure all the necessary vitamins and minerals are consumed.