Children and ad
olescents in sports present a special group. In addition to their increased nutritional needs due to physical development and growth, the proper diet needs to cover the increased nutrient requirements due to exercise. Our main concern is to provide, mainly through food and a balanced diet, sufficient energy, protein, carbohydrate, vitamins, minerals and fluid to meet the needs of the young athlete according to the chosen sport. Emphasis is given to foods rich in B vitamins, iron, calcium and magnesium.
Certain sports require that athletes attain a low body fat composition. Our aim is to reach this through a balanced diet, while supporting growth, and to prevent practices that often lead certain adolescents to eating disorders.
Dietrophy’s tools to support children and adolescents who exercise include:
- Detailed diet history
- Menu designed to cover the carbohydrate needs in order to replenish glycogen stores.
- Provision of adequate protein intake
- Rehydration and electrolyte balance before and during exercise
- Use of food supplements if necessary