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Nutritional Considerations for Young Athletes

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Book cover Nutrition in Lifestyle Medicine

Part of the book series: Nutrition and Health ((NH))

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Abstract

Adolescence is a time marked by significant biological, physical, psychological, and behavioral growth; therefore, understanding the types of dietary intakes and habits that minimize unhealthful weight gain, maximize performance, and promote the development of positive lifelong health behaviors is of critical importance. Recent estimates suggest 60 million children ages 6–18 years participate in some form of organized sport in the USA, and 44 million participate in more than one sport [1]. However, research shows that even in active sports, such as soccer, the average participant accumulates only 17 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per 50 min of game time [2]. Research also suggests the foods and beverages marketed in sports venues, sold at concession stands, and used for sports fundraising are commonly unhealthy, with few healthful options available [3]. The marketing and sales of unhealthy foods and beverages in the youth sport environment has the potential to undermine the possible, and typically minimal, physical activity benefits of participating in youth sports. This chapter will provide the latest research related to active adolescents’ (1) dietary needs; (2) beverage consumption patterns; (3) use of supplements and ergogenic aids; and (4) behavioral techniques to promote healthful dietary patterns. Lastly, this section will provide practical information for how health practitioners, coaches, and parents can support a healthful environment for young athletes.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of New England School of Community and Population Health, Portland, ME, USA

    Rebecca Boulos MPH, PhD

  2. University of New England, Portland, ME, USA

    Anne-Marie Davee MS, RD, LD

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  1. Rebecca Boulos MPH, PhD
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  2. Anne-Marie Davee MS, RD, LD
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Correspondence to Rebecca Boulos MPH, PhD .

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  1. Rippe Lifestyle Institute , Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, USA

    James M. Rippe

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Boulos, R., Davee, AM. (2017). Nutritional Considerations for Young Athletes. In: Rippe, J. (eds) Nutrition in Lifestyle Medicine. Nutrition and Health. Humana Press, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-43027-0_14

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-43027-0_14

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