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Diet for Young Athletes
When we refer to young athletes the reference is to high school or college age young people who are regularly engaged in various forms of athletic activities which should be considered in shaping their diet. Of course such activities may range from softball to hockey, to basketball to field and track. Diet is important to these young people as they regularly expend large amounts of energy. In general, of course, their diets should include all of the basic food elements to maintain a healthy body. Beyond this, depending upon the activities involved, the diet can be supplemented or adjusted to meet specific needs. In general a diet higher in protein than that needed by older less activities is recommended. Regular intake of lean meats and fish is advisable. Another general rule in maintaining a good diet for young athletes is the intake of larger amounts of carbohydrates than an older or more sedentary person would require. These carbohydrates are burned to supply the energy required for participation in athletic activities such as football, wrestling, basketball and hockey and are an important part of their diet.
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Energy drinks are suggested as part of the athlete's overall diet, to supply adequate fluid and also additional energy supplements for young athletes. High energy sports, particularly during hot weather, can lead to dehydration if adequate fluids are not supplied in the diet. In some cases, the young athlete may simply consume a normal diet directly before participating in an event, but prepare for it the previous day by including a large amount of carbohydrates, such as potatoes, pasta and breads in their diet. In preparation for a major sporting competition, the young athletes may supplement their regular diet by having a "pasta party" the night before, consuming large amounts of macaroni, spaghetti or other pasta dishes. Before some major events, such as a marathon, a young athlete may wish to eat or drink very little, but will want to consume more food than usual afterward to replace the energy burned during the event. Personal preferences and individual physical responses will govern some choices in terms of diet, but young athletes requires excellent nutrition, a good supply of protein, substantial carbohydrates and plenty of fluids in their diets.
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