5 Nutritional Strategies Young Athletes Should Avoid

5 Nutritional Strategies Young Athletes Should Avoid
By TrueSport
From after school sport practices, to full-day and weekend tournaments, young athletes need a lot of energy to power them through their days.
According to Sport Dietitian Mackenzie White, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, CSCS, young male and female athletes need adequate energy daily to fuel their bodies for their sport, reach growth potential, and prevent injuries.
Nutrition requirements for young athletes are determined by the type, intensity, and duration of the sport along with age, height, and weight. The type of food and timing of consumption is also necessary for young athletes, as well as their parents and coaches, to consider.
“Good nutrition is essential in the development of their bodies and brain function. It can potentially aid in the prevention of major health issues like diabetes, obesity, heart disease, cancer, and osteoporosis, so how young athletes fuel their bodies is extremely important,” adds White.
Here are five nutritional strategies your young athlete should avoid to ensure they aren’t deprived of the fuel and nutrients they need to compete at their best.