Nutrients can be compared with the fuel used in a car. The vehicle will not function if the fuel is inadequate or inappropriate. An athlete's body functions in the same way. Without proper fuel and maintenance, performance will be impaired. Athletic performance is enhanced by a combination of nutrition, hydration and healthy lifestyle.
Features
The President's Council on Fitness and Sports has some basic suggestions about sports nutrition. Hydration is at the top of the list. It recommends water for athletic activities lasting less than 90 minutes and sports drinks, which contain electrolytes, for activities lasting over 90 minutes. The council's experts advise athletes to eat a diet rich in carbohydrates and calcium-loaded foods.
Functions
Athletes tend to sweat. Sweat causes water loss, which can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can impede athletic performance. This is why hydration is crucial to athletes. The starches in carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is an athlete's prime source of energy. Iron is also important for maintaining energy. It can be found in animal products, as well as green, leafy vegetables.
Prevention/Solution
Stress fractures and bone disease can end an athlete's career. As such, the experts at the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sport stress the importance of calcium. A calcium-rich diet, combined with a strength-training program can help prevent fractures. Dairy products, sardines, salmon with bones and vegetables such as okra are examples of calcium rich foods.
Misconceptions
Contrary to the claims of protein supplement manufacturers, eating extra protein will not help you build larger muscles. Muscle development is the result of a combination of genetics and strength training. The council's experts also warn that taking extra vitamins will not increase energy or performance.
Considerations
Sports nutrition works in conjunction with healthy lifestyles. In addition to adhering to a proper diet, the athlete must have a training regimen that includes sport-specific workouts. These exercises should be designed to simulate the movement patterns specific to the sport, while strengthening the individual muscle groups. Rest and relaxation are also important to the overall health of an athlete. Getting proper sleep, as well as scheduling days with minimal or no activity, is essential.
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