SWIM & DIVE ​​

Proper nutrition is an essential part of living a healthy life; this is even truer for athletes. People who are more active or are engaged in a sport need to have a well-balanced diet. Including the nutrition that the body needs will help you stay healthy and energized. Today, obtaining proper nutrition is not difficult to achieve; with the help of scientists and nutritionists, there is a wide variety of nutrition plans to choose from. Without the adequate nutrition, athletes can develop various diseases such as osteoporosis.

 

Why is proper nutrition for athletes important?

The main reason why athletes should find a nutrition program is so that they can stay healthy and prevent injuries. Recent research reports that injuries are more prevalent during the last 20-30 min. of a game; this is because during this time the body is more fatigued and the mind becomes less concentrated. A healthy diet can help athletes build endurance not only physically, but mentally as well. Staying focused and energized throughout a game can help prevent injuries.

Another important reason to obtain proper nutrition is to enhance your overall performance. Despite of all the training and skills received, the only way for an athlete to reach his full potential is by nourishing and fueling the body. By eating healthy meals full of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, athletes can provide their body with the adequate energy source to perform well.

What should healthy nutrition for athletes include?

 

Every athlete should consume a healthy diet that includes the following;

• Carbohydrates – Since they provide up to 50% of the energy source, carbohydrates should definitely be on top of the nutrition plan list. The more active a person is the more carbohydrates the body will use. Including proper amounts of carbohydrates in your diet will aid in your performance and strength.

• Water – As most know, water is necessary for life. Being well-hydrated is crucial for all human beings especially athletes. Becoming even slightly dehydrated can be extremely dangerous while you’re active. Water is needed to regulate your body temperature and protect your health.

• Fats – Like carbohydrates, fats are also a good source of energy. While fat is typically only used after one hour of performance, an adequate amount of fat should be included in an athlete’s diet. Lack of fat consumption can highly affect your physical activity.

• Protein – Once carbohydrates and fats have been used, the body will search for proteins as an alternative energy source. When extra protein is consumed, the body stores it as fat and uses it when energy is necessary.

• Vitamins & Minerals – Riboflavin, thiamin, and niacin are three important vitamins that should be included in an athlete’s nutritional regimen. These vitamins are required in order for the body to produce energy.

 

We have included a guide for you: Nutrition Booklet