The importance for nutrition is often overlooked by professionals and young kids. To reach peak performance at any age, nutrition is a prominent factor.
Nutrients are a type of substance our bodies require to grow and develop. A balanced diet makes it achievable to meet nutrition goals. This supports healthy respiration, blood circulation and digestion.
An athlete needs more nutrients than someone who does limited physical activity, as the more active you are the more nutrients you need. If an athlete does not obtain the proper vitamins their body will begin to break down muscle, tissue and bones to get through the activity. They may underperform, be more prone to injuries, struggle to recover after workouts and gain or lose weight without the intention to do so.
“Nutrition affects every aspect of an athlete’s performance. The choice of food, time consumed, quantity and quality all play a vital role. Coming to an event dehydrated can both reduce performance and increase risk for gastrointestinal issues and injury. Proper nutrition will be one of their biggest advantages to be able to play 100% throughout the match and season,” personal trainer Meredith Doellman said.
If someone who has a random decrease in energy could mean they do not eat often enough. Snack and meals throughout the day, by suggestion should be every three to four hours. This can evoke less drowsiness throughout the day.
Some athletes resort to vitamin supplements to acquire nutrition goals. Although this is one solution, it is best to get nourishment from food, this makes it easier for the human body to absorb compared to additives.
“I always make sure I eat healthy and get electrolytes before games because I notice it improves my speed and overall energy throughout the activity,” Harper Murphy ‘26 said.
It is easier said than done to ingest healthy food on the regular. Vegetables are not always everyone’s top choice, but this is not the only option for proper nourishment. Proteins like chicken, salmon and eggs are substantial options. If you need to increase your carbohydrate intake some options include oatmeal, rice, bananas and potatoes.
“Because I participate in multiple sports, nutrition is an important factor to my life on and off the field. The day before a game I eat spaghetti and meatballs, and about an hour before I play I drink a protein shake,” Elijah Wyse ‘27 said.
Nutrition has a significant impact on one’s daily life. It holds the ability to boost energy, build a stronger immune system and reduce the risk of diseases. To eat with adequate intentions is to live a long, healthy life.
