Nutritional
Needs of Young Athletes
FAQs about Diet and Nutrition
FAQs about Vitamins and Supplements
FAQs about Fluids and Hydration
Helpful Nutrition Links
Your body is the most important piece of equipment that you will ever
take to a game. And like all
expensive bats, gloves, and other equipment, your body needs to be taken care
of so that it can perform its best in practices and games. Did you know that what you eat and
drink before a game can make the difference between striking out and hitting a
home run? Knowing what to put into
your body, how much, and when is as important as knowing when to steal a base. By eating and drinking the right things
at the right time, you can be 68% stronger, faster, and less likely to get
tired during the game or practice.
The
best way to care for your body is to eat a healthy, well balanced diet every
day and to drink plenty of fluids. This will ensure that you get essential vitamins and nutrients and that
your body stays hydrated allowing you to keep your body performing at its best. Meals should include foods from the
major food groups: Meats and
Beans, Grains, Fruits, Vegetables, and Dairy. A food pyramid can help you determine if you are eating a
well balanced diet by helping you to know how much to eat from each of the food
groups. You may want to look at
the online nutritional guide at My Pyramid, ( www.mypyramid.gov ) to learn more.
Basic Food Group Information for Young Athletes
What to Eat and Drink on Game Day
Fun Facts
Nutrional Information Authors
Yvonne Weideman, MBA, BSN, RN
Samasnth Brunner, Student Nurse
Lauren Demblowski, Nutrition Student
Jacylin Gagle, Student Nurse
Kristen Latuska, Student Nurse
Katherine McGinty, Student Nurse
Carrie Phillips, Student Nurse
Rebecca Petras, Student Nurse
Heather Tittiger, Student Nurse
Megan Wunderlich, Student Nurse
Special Thanks to Leslie Bonci, MPH, RD, LDN |