athletes medical information

nutrition for
athletes
A practical guide to eating for health
and performance.
Prepared by the Nutrition Working
Group of the Medical Commission of
the International Olympic Committee.
Based on an International Consensus
Conference held at the IOC in
Lausanne in June 2003.
athletes medical information

Message from
Powerade
The Coca-Cola Company, via the
Powerade brand, has formed a
very successful partnership with
the IOC Nutrition Working Group
and the IOC Athletes
Commission. This partnership has created a
nutrition brochure which we hope will provide
you with practical information for this
prestigious sporting event.
We are dedicated to supporting athletes
who continue to push the boundaries of
personal achievement. Powerade was
developed to help athletes perform at their best
for longer, thanks to its formulation, which can
help delay the onset of fatigue during exercise
and prevent dehydration.
This brochure also recognises the
importance of diet as a crucial part of sporting
performance and we hope you find the
information useful.
Good luck in your chosen sport.

Dominique Reiniche
President and Chief Operating Officer
Coca-Cola European Union Group
 athletes medical information
Foreword by
Dr Patrick Schamasch
The IOC and its Medical
Commission are pleased to
provide athletes with this
brochure, developed under the
leadership of the IOC Nutrition
working group, in close collaboration with the
IOC Athletes Commission.
Its simplicity and reader-friendly layout make
this work a reference for all those who, like the
IOC Medical Commission, believe that nutrition
is one of the decisive elements in high-level
athletes preparations.
Powerade is the partner of the IOCs Medical
Commission for this publication and helps us to
spread the information in a worldwide
campaign to athletes at all levels.
For all those who, without aspiring to take
part in the Olympic Games, place sport and
physical activity as a top priority, this brochure
will ensure better management of their efforts
and preparations.

IOC Medical Director

athletes medical information

Key messages
Whenever highly talented, motivated and well on vegetables, fruits, beans, legumes, grains,
trained athletes gather for competition, the animal meats, oils and carbohydrate should
margin between victory and defeat is small. ensure an adequate intake of vitamins and
Attention to detail can make that vital minerals.
difference. Maintaining hydration is important for
Diet affects performance, and the foods that performance. Fluid intake before, during (where
we choose in training and competition will appropriate) and after exercise is especially
affect how well we train and compete. Athletes important in hot climates. Salt replacement is
need to be aware of their nutritional goals and important when sweat losses are high.
of how they can select an eating strategy to Athletes are cautioned against the
meet those goals. indiscriminate use of dietary supplements.
Diet may have its biggest impact on training,
and a good diet will help support consistent This booklet contains information that
intensive training without the athlete will help athletes to make informed choices
succumbing to illness or injury. Good food to meet their nutritional needs in different
choices can also promote adaptations to the situations. It is no substitute for individual
training stimulus. advice from a qualified professional, but
Athletes are all different, and there is no tries to give practical information that will
single diet that meets the needs of all athletes be of use to the serious athlete.
at all times. Individual needs also change
across the season and athletes must be flexible
to accommodate this.
Getting the right amount of energy to stay
healthy and to perform well is key. Too much
and body fat increases: too little and
performance falls and illness results.
Carbohydrate is a key nutrient for energy
supply. Athletes must be aware of foods that
can help meet their carbohydrate needs and
make these a focus of their diet.
Protein foods are important for building and
repairing muscles, but a varied diet containing
everyday foods will generally supply more than
enough protein. Well-chosen vegetarian diets
can also meet protein needs.
A varied and wholesome nutrient-rich diet
that meets energy needs and is based largely
 athletes medical information
Introduction: the benefits
of eating well
A well-chosen diet offers many benefits to allow athletes at all levels of performance to
the elite athlete: achieve the special goals of their training and
competition programs. It makes no sense to
l Optimal gains from the training program train hard and ignore the benefits that follow
l Enhanced recovery between workouts and from good food choices.
events
l Achievement and maintenance of an ideal Nutrition for Athletes is based on the
body weight and physique conclusions of the IOC Consensus
l A reduced risk of injury and illness Conference on Nutrition for Sport, held in
l Confidence in being well-prepared to face Lausanne in June 2003. We gratefully
competition acknowledge the contribution of the
l Consistency in achieving high level conference participants as the expert
competition performances scientific sources for this booklet.
l Enjoyment of food and social eating
occasions
This booklet was prepared for the
Despite these advantages, many athletes do IOC Medical Commission Working
not meet their nutrition goals. Common Group on Sports Nutrition by
problems and challenges include:
l Professor Louise Burke, Australia
l Poor knowledge of foods and inadequate l Professor Ed Coyle, USA
cooking skills l Professor Ron Maughan, UK
l Poor or outdated knowledge of sports
nutrition We thank Frankie Fredericks and
l Inadequate finances Dr Patrick Schamasch for their insight
l Busy lifestyle leading inadequate time to and comments in the preparation of this
obtain or consume appropriate foods booklet.
l Poor availability of good food choices
l Frequent travel
l Indiscriminate use of large amounts of
supplements and sports foods

The information in this booklet is designed to

provide coaches and athletes with an overview
of the latest guidelines in sports nutrition. While
there is no such thing as a magic diet or food,
there are many ways in which eating well can
athletes medical information

Energy needs and

weight control
An athletes daily energy intake provides for (muscle fuel) and protein (muscle mass) by
immediate energy needs (body functions, managing intake and expenditure of these
activity and growth) as well as influencing body nutrients separately. These issues will be
energy stores. Energy stores play a number of discussed in separate parts of this booklet.
important roles related to exercise l The athlete should eat to a plan that
performance, since they contribute to achieves their specific goals rather than
relying on appetite to guide energy intake.
l Size and physique (e.g. body fat and muscle Advice from a sports nutrition expert is often
mass) required to develop this plan.
l function (e.g. muscle mass) l The athlete should have a number of
l fuel for exercise (e.g. muscle and liver separate bio-markers to monitor their
carbohydrate) progress in achieving each of their energy-
related goals.
Many athletes try to manipulate these factors l Body weight is not a reliable or accurate
towards the characteristics that offer indicator of energy balance. Monitoring
advantages to their sport. In most cases, the body weight is often a stressful activity
goals are to change body weight, reduce body for athletes, especially when the
fat, increase muscle mass and optimize information is misinterpreted or the
important fuel stores. Problems can occur when outcome is manipulated
l Serial monitoring of skinfold fat
l the athlete is unable to identify goals that thicknesses, especially when undertaken
are both suitable for their sport, and for their by a trained kinanthropometrist, can
individual make-up provide useful information about changes
l the athlete is unable to monitor the separate in body fat stores
components of their goals (for example, to l Urinary ketones can provide a marker of
distinguish changes in body fat from inadequate carbohydrate intake
changes in total body weight, or to see l Measurements of changes in muscle
whether total energy intake provides for strength and endurance provide a useful
optimal store of body fuels) biomarker of muscle development
l the athlete restricts energy intake to the
level that interferes with the bodys Special concerns about restricting
metabolic and hormonal function energy intake
Although many athletes reduce their energy
Strategies for managing energy intake and intake to assist with the loss of body weight
energy balance: and body fat, it is harmful to restrict energy
l The athlete should individually manage their intake below levels that interfere with healthy
energy stores of body fat, carbohydrate body function.
 athletes medical information
Energy availability = total dietary energy
intake energy used in daily
activity/exercise

There is good evidence from recent

research that when energy availability
drops below a daily intake of 30 kcal
(135 kJ) per kg fat-free mass
(FFM), there are substantial
impairments of metabolic and
hormonal function, which affect
performance, growth and health. In
females, one outcome of low energy availability
is a disturbance of reproductive function and
menstrual regularity. Other problems are likely to
occur in male athletes.

Example of low energy availability:

l 60 kg female with 20% body fat =
48kg FFM
l Daily energy intake is restricted to
1800 kcal (7560 kJ)
l Cost of daily exercise (1 h/d) =
500 kcal (2100 kJ)
l Energy availability = 1800-500 =
1300 kcal (5460 kJ)
l Energy availability = 1300/48 or
27 kcal/kg FFM (113 kJ per kg FFM)

Athletes requiring advice for weight loss or fat

loss should seek guidance from a sports
nutrition expert such as a sports dietitian.
To avoid irreversible skeletal damage, athletes
with menstrual disorders should be immediately
referred to a medical expert for treatment.
athletes medical information

Fuel needs for training

and recovery
Carbohydrate provides an important but than 8 hours, carbohydrate intake should
relatively short-lived supply of fuel for exercise start as soon as practical after the first
that must be refilled each day from session to maximise the effective recovery
carbohydrate foods in the diet. The athletes time. There may be some advantages in
everyday eating plan needs to provide enough meeting carbohydrate targets as a series of
carbohydrate to fuel their training program and snacks during the early recovery phase.
to optimise the recovery of muscle glycogen l During longer recovery periods (24 hours),
stores between workouts. General targets can the pattern and timing of carbohydrate-rich
be provided for carbohydrate needs, based on meals and snacks does not appear to be
the athletes size and the demands of their critical, and can be organised according to
training program (see Table below). However, what is practical and comfortable for each
actual needs are specific to the individual athlete. There is no difference in glycogen
athlete and need to be fine-tuned with synthesis when carbohydrate is consumed in
consideration of the athletes total energy liquid form or as solid foods.
needs, specific training needs and feedback l It is valuable to choose nutrient-rich
from their training performance. carbohydrates and to add other foods to
recovery meals and snacks to provide a
good source of protein and other nutrients.
Targets for carbohydrate intake These nutrients may assist in other recovery
l Immediate recovery after exercise (0-4 processes, and in the case of protein, may
hours): about 1 g per kg BW of the promote additional glycogen recovery when
athletes body weight per hour, perhaps carbohydrate intake is below targets or when
consumed at frequent intervals frequent snacking is not possible.
l Daily recovery from a moderate l Carbohydrate-rich foods with a moderate to
duration/low intensity training program: high glycaemic index (GI) provide a readily
5-7 g per kg BW per day available source of carbohydrate for
l Recovery from moderate-heavy glycogen synthesis, and should be the major
endurance training: 7-12 g per kg BW fuel choices in recovery meals.
per day l Adequate energy intake is also important for
l Daily recovery from extreme exercise optimal glycogen recovery; the restrained
program (more than 4-6 h+ per day): eating practices of some athletes,
10-12 g or more per kg BW per day particularly females, make it difficult to meet
carbohydrate intake targets and to optimise
glycogen storage from this intake.
Strategies for choosing carbohydrate foods
and for optimising glycogen recovery Special comments:
l When the period between workouts is less l Guidelines for carbohydrate should not be
 athletes medical information
provided in terms of percentage
contributions to total dietary energy intake.
Such recommendations are neither user-
friendly nor strongly related to the muscles
absolute needs for fuel.
l The athlete should not consume excessive
amounts of alcohol during the recovery
period since it is likely to interfere with their
ability or interest to follow guidelines for
post-exercise eating. The athlete should
follow sensible drinking practices at all times,
but particularly in the period after exercise.

Examples of carbohydrate foods with

moderate-high Glycaemic Index:

l Most breakfast cereals

l Most forms of rice
l White and brown breads
l Sports drinks and soft drinks
l Sugar, jam and honey
l Potatoes
l Tropical fruits and juices

Examples of nutrient-rich carbohydrate

foods and meal combinations

l Breakfast cereal with milk

l Flavoured yoghurt
l Fruit smoothie or liquid meal
supplement
l Sandwich with meat and salad filling
l Stir-fry with rice and noodles
athletes medical information

Protein needs for training

and bulking up
Protein has been considered a key nutrient for protein intakes. Rather, athletes who consume
sporting success by athletes of all eras. adequate energy intake from a variety of
Whereas ancient Olympians were reported to nutrient-rich foods should be confident of
eat unusually large amounts of meat, todays meeting their protein needs, including any
athletes are provided with a vast array of increases that could arise from high-level
protein and amino acid supplements to training.
increase their protein intakes.
l Athletes at risk of failing to meet their
Protein plays an important role in the response protein needs are those who severely restrict
to exercise. Amino acids from proteins form their energy intake or dietary variety. An
building blocks for the manufacture of new adequate energy intake is also important in
tissue including muscle, and the repair of old promoting protein balance or increasing
tissue. They are also the building blocks for protein retention.
hormones and enzymes that regulate
metabolism and other body functions. Protein Although some resistance-trained athletes and
provides a small source of fuel for the body builders consume protein intake in excess
exercising muscle. of 2-3 g/kg BM, there is no evidence that such
dietary patterns enhance the response to
l Some sports scientists have suggested that training or increase the gains in muscle mass
endurance and resistance-training exercise and strength. While such diets are not
may increase daily protein needs up to a necessarily harmful, they are expensive and
maximum of 1.2-1.6 g per kg body weight can fail to meet other nutritional goals, such as
(BW), compared to the recommended intake providing the fuel needed to optimise training
of 0.8 g/kg BW for a sedentary person. and performance.
However, the evidence for this increase in Recent studies have focussed on the acute
protein needs is not clear and universal. Part response to workouts of both endurance and
of the confusion is caused by problems resistance training. Enhanced protein balance is
involved in scientific techniques used to a desirable goal of the recovery phase to
measure protein requirements. overturn the increased rates of protein
breakdown that occur during exercise, and to
The debate over protein needs of athletes is promote muscle hypertrophy, repair and
largely unnecessary. Dietary surveys show that adaptation following the exercise stimulus.
most athletes already consume diets providing Such studies have found that the intake of
protein intakes above 1.2-1.6 g/kg/d, even protein, combined with carbohydrate, enhances
without the use of protein supplements. protein recovery. There is some evidence that
Therefore, most athletes do not need to be the response is enhanced when these nutrients
encouraged or educated to increase their are provided soon after exercise, or in the case
 athletes medical information
of a resistance workout, perhaps immediately
before training. Further work is required to fine Protein rich foods
tune guidelines for the optimal amount, type 10 g protein is provided by
and timing of intake of these nutrients, and to
confirm that these eating strategies lead to an l 2 small eggs
enhancement of the goals of training. l 300 ml cows milk
l 20 g skim milk powder
In the meantime, it appears sensible to focus l 30 g cheese
on the total balance of the diet and the timing l 200 g yoghurt
of protein-carbohydrate meals and snacks in l 35-50 g meat, fish or chicken
relation to training, rather than high protein l 4 slices bread
intakes per se. l 90 g breakfast cereal
l 2 cups cooked pasta or 3 cups rice
l Special sports foods such as sports bars and l 400 ml soy milk
liquid meal supplements can provide a l 60 g nuts or seeds
compact and convenient way to consume l 120 g tofu or soy meat
carbohydrate and protein when everyday l 150 g legumes or lentils
foods are unavailable or are too bulky and l 200 g baked beans
impractical to consume. However, the l 150 ml fruit smoothie or liquid meal
addition cost of these products must be supplement
taken into account. There is little justification
for using very expensive protein-only
powders or amino acid supplements.
athletes medical information

Vitamins, minerals and anti-oxid

for training and staying well
Strenuous bouts of prolonged exercise and correct an established nutrient deficiency (e.g.
heavy training, particularly aerobic exercise, iron deficiency).
stress the body. Adequate intakes of energy,
protein, iron, copper, manganese, magnesium, Anti-oxidant nutrients
selenium, sodium zinc, and vitamins A, C, E, B6
and B12 are particularly important to health It is not known whether hard training increases
and performance. These nutrients, as well as the need for dietary antioxidants, as the body
others, are best obtained from a varied and naturally develops an effective defence with a
wholesome nutrient-rich diet based largely on balanced diet. Supplementation with
vegetables, fruits, beans, legumes, grains, antioxidants cannot be recommended because
animal meats, oils and carbohydrate energy. there is little evidence of benefit, while it is
Dietary surveys show that most athletes are known that over-supplementation can diminish
well able to meet the recommended intakes for the bodys natural defence system.
vitamins and minerals by eating everyday
foods. Those at risk of sub-optimal intakes of
these micronutrients include: Ideas for promoting dietary variety
l athletes who restrict their energy intake, and nutrient-rich eating
especially over long periods, especially to
meet weight loss goals l Be open to trying new foods and new
l athletes who follow eating patterns with recipes
restricted food variety and reliance on foods l Make the most of foods in season
with a poor nutrient-density l Explore all the varieties of different
foods
The best way to correct this situation is to seek l Mix and match foods at meals
advice from a sports nutrition expert such as a l Think carefully before banishing a food
sports dietitian. When food intake cannot be or group of foods from your eating
adequately improved for example, when the plans
athlete is travelling in a country with a limited l Include fruits and vegetables at every
food supply or if an individual is found to be meal. The strong colours of many fruits
suffering from a lack of a particular vitamin or and vegetables are a sign of a high
mineral, then supplementation can be content of various vitamins and other
warranted. This should be undertaken with the food anti-oxidants. Aim to fill your plate
advice of a qualified sports nutrition expert. In with highly coloured foods to ensure a
general, a broad-range multivitamin/mineral good intake of the range of these
supplement is the best choice to support a health-promoting dietary
restricted food intake, although targeted compounds
nutrient supplements may be necessary to
 athletes medical information
ants

Special concerns

Iron. Some athletes may develop iron

deficiency and this will impair
performance. Unexplained fatigue,
especially in vegetarian athletes should
be explored. Routine use of iron
supplements is not wise: too much is
just as harmful as too little. Self-
medication with iron supplements may
not address the real causes of an
athletes fatigue or other issues of
poor eating. See the section on
Special needs for winter sports for
iron-rich eating strategies.

Calcium. Calcium is important for healthy

bones, especially in adolescents and in
female athletes, so it is important to
ensure adequate calcium intake. The best
sources are dairy produce, including low
fat varieties. Each athlete should aim to
include at least 3 servings of these foods
in their daily eating plans (e.g. glass of
milk, slice of cheese, carton of yoghurt).
Additional daily servings are required
during growth spurts in childhood and
adolescence, and for pregnancy and
lactation. Fortified soy foods may provide
a useful substitute where athletes
cannot consume dairy foods.
athletes medical information

Preparation for
competition
Many athletes appreciate the need to rest and
eat well during the 2-3 days prior to One Day Example of foods providing 630
competition or a particularly intense day of g of carbohydrate for a carbohydrate
quality training, but questions arise regarding loading diet* (for a person weighing 70 kg
how much to eat, what type of food and when with an intake of 9 g CHO /kg).
is the best time. This includes what to eat
during the six-hour period immediately before l Early AM - 150 g = 2 cups cereal with
competition or intense training. milk + 250 ml fruit juice + 1 banana
+ 2 thick slices toast + thick spread of
Carbohydrate is the key energy-providing jam
nutrient that must be optimised during the days l Late AM - 50 g = 500 ml soft drink
leading up to and including the day of l Mid-day - 150 g = 1 large bread roll
competition. Attention should also be given to + 1 medium muffin + fruit smoothie
optimising water and salt levels in the body. l Snack- 50 g = 200 g flavoured
However, during the 2-4 days prior to a yoghurt + 250 ml fruit juice
competition, an athlete's need for protein and l Dinner - 200 g = 3 cups cooked pasta
fat, as well as most other nutrients, typically + 2 cups fruit salad + 2 scoops ice
does not increase above the levels that are cream + 500 ml sports drink
recommended for normal moderate level l Snack - 30 gm = 50 g chocolate
training.
(*note that other foods may be eaten at
Carbo-loading the meal)
Athletes who compete intensely for more than
about 90 minutes benefit from carbohydrate-
loading for a few days. This loading of muscle Carbohydrate in the 6-h period before
glycogen to super-compensated levels can be competition
achieved within 2-3 days by eating a large Athletes sometimes find a favourite pre-
amount of carbohydrate (about 8-10 g CHO competition meal that not only provides extra
per kg of body weight per day; see below) at energy during the event, but also feels right in
the same time that training intensity is terms of curbing hunger, quieting their stomach
reduced to no more than easy levels of short and being convenient as well as practical. In
duration. It is assumed that a moderate to sports that do not cause fatigue or
hard bout of fatiguing exercise is performed in carbohydrate depletion (e.g., gymnastics, ski-
normal training sometime earlier in the week jumping, etc), the pre-event meal need not be
prior to competition. predominantly carbohydrate. However, in
intense competitions lasting longer than about
60 minutes, athletes are advised to either:
 athletes medical information
l Eat 1-4 g/ kg body weight of carbohydrate Fluid intake prior to competition
during the 6-h period before exercise, or Athletes should drink sufficient fluid with meals
l Take in no carbohydrate, if preferred, but on the day before competition to ensure
only when a carbohydrate loading diet has hydration on the morning of competition. The
been followed during the prior 2-3 days and athlete should not refrain from drinking water
the competition is not late in the day. or carbohydrate-containing fluids during the
hours leading up to warm-up before
The main mistake athletes might make is to competition and it is recommended that
eat too little carbohydrate (less than 1 g CHO approximately 400-700 ml be ingested during
/kg body weight) during the 1-6 h period before the 60-90 minute period before the start of the
exercise and then not take in carbohydrate event. This will allow sufficient time for
during exercise. This small carbohydrate meal urination of excess fluid, and thus rest-room
primes the body to rely more heavily on blood facilities should be identified. During
glucose, but it does not provide enough competitions lasting longer than 1 hour and
carbohydrate to sustain the athlete. which cause heavy sweating without sufficient
opportunity for fluid intake, athletes often
benefit by drinking 300-600 ml of fluid during
Five different examples of foods that the 15 minute period immediately before the
each provide 140 g CHO in a pre- start of the event.
competition meal* (2 g/kg for a 70 kg
person) are:

l 2.5 cups breakfast cereal + milk +

large banana
l Large bread roll or 3 thick slices bread
+ thick spread honey
l 2 cups boiled rice + 2 slices bread
l 4 stack pancakes + 1/2 cup syrup
l 60 g sports bar + 500 ml liquid meal
supplement or fruit smoothie

(*note that other foods may be eaten at

the meal)
athletes medical information

Fluid, carbohydrate and salt

needs during and after exercise
Athletes generally appreciate the need to drink sweating type exercise lasting longer than 30
fluids during exercise and the importance of min, practice drinking during the 15 minutes
sometimes adding some carbohydrate and before exercise and find how much is initially
salts. The next step in applying this theory for filling but comfortable once exercise begins
optimal performance and well-being is to learn (e.g., 300-800 ml).
the practical aspects of: a) how much, b) what
type of foods, drinks, products, c) when during When do you need more than water?
exercise, and d) what modifications should be l In terms of proven performance benefits, no
made in hot or cold environments. Just as nutrients match water and/or carbohydrate.
general training and competition strategies l During exercise lasting longer than 1 h and
should be tailored for individual athletes in which elicits fatigue, athletes are advised to
accordance with their unique needs and ingest 20-60 grams per hour of
preferences, so should their drinking and eating carbohydrate that is rapidly converted to
choices during exercise. Athletes, coaches and blood glucose. This generally improves
trainers should fine tune these performance.
recommendation to identify their own winning l The use of commercial sports drinks with a
formula. carbohydrate content of about 4-8% (4-8
g/100 ml) allows carbohydrate and fluid
How Much to Drink? needs to be met simultaneously in most
Limit dehydration during workouts and events. This carbohydrate can come from
competitions by trying to drink at a rate that is sugars (i.e., sucrose, syrups containing no
close to sweat rate and thus minimizes loss of more than 50% fructose, glucose),
body weight. maltodextrins or other rapidly digestible
It may not be necessary to drink enough to carbohydrates.
prevent loss of body weight, but the amount of l If carbohydrates are ingested immediately
dehydration should be limited to no more than before exercise or during rest periods in a
a 2% loss of body weight (ie, 1.0 kg for 50 kg long contest (more than 40 minutes) it is
person, 1.5 kg for a 75 kg person, and 2 kg for sometimes beneficial to continue to ingest
a 100 kg person). 20-60 grams per hour throughout the
In warm environments, try to minimize contest. This maintains the flow of glucose
dehydration, as dehydration and exercise into the blood-stream.
intensity interact to cause heat illness. l Sodium should be included in fluids
Dont drink so much that you actually gain consumed during exercise lasting longer
weight during exercise. It is not necessary for a than 1-2 hours or by individuals during any
runner to drink more than 2-4 litres during an event that stimulates heavy sodium loss (i.e.,
entire 42 km marathon run. more than 3-4 grams of sodium).
When it is not possible to drink during heavy l Caffeine contained in commonly available
 athletes medical information
beverages and foods can enhance drink about 1.2-1.5 litres of fluid for each kg of
endurance power during the final hour of weight loss in training or competition. Drinks
prolonged exercise. This benefit can be should contain sodium (the main salt lost in
obtained with relatively small doses of sweat) if no food is eaten at this time. Sports
caffeine (about 1.5 mg/kg bodyweight; e.g., drinks that contain electrolytes are helpful, but
100 ml of brewed coffee or 500-750 ml of a many foods can supply the salt that is needed.
cola beverage) that are commonly consumed A little extra salt may usefully be added to
by people of various cultures. meals when sweat losses are high, but salt
tablets should be used with caution.
Recovery after exercise is part of the
How to estimate sweating rate: preparation for the next exercise session, and
all athletes, including strength and power
1) Measure body weight both before athletes, will perform below their best if they
and after at least one hour of exercise are not well hydrated when they begin exercise.
under conditions similar to competition
or a hard practice.
2) Measure body weight wearing Just like shoes, dont try out new plans
minimal clothing and while bare footed. for fluid and fuel intake during important
Towel dry after exercise and obtain competition. Do it in practice and find
body weight as soon as is practical after what fits you best.
exercise (e.g. less than 10 min).
3) Sweat loss (Litres) = Body weight
before exercise (in kg) - Body weight
after exercise
4) To convert to a sweat rate per hour,
divide by the exercise time in minutes
and multiply by 60

Note: 2.2 pounds equals 1.0 kg and

converts to a volume of 1.0 litre or 1,000
ml or 34 ounces of water.

Rehydration after exercise

Replacement of sweat losses is an essential
part of the recovery process. Both water and
salts lost in sweat must be replaced. Aim to
athletes medical information

Supplements and
sports foods
Athletes look to nutritional supplements for achieved from everyday foods and extra protein
many benefits, including: is seldom required (See section 3).
Protein-carbohydrate supplements may have
l promoting adaptations to training a role as part of a post-exercise recovery plan,
l increasing energy supply but whole proteins have advantages over
l allowing more consistent and intensive individual amino acids (see box above).
training by promoting recovery between
training sessions Fat reduction and muscle building
l maintaining good health and reducing A huge array of supplements is on sale with
interruptions to training due to chronic claims that they can reduce body fat levels and
fatigue, illness or injury build bigger and stronger muscles claims
l enhancing competitive performance. that appeal to athletes and non-athletes alike.
The reality is that many of the products that
Supplement use is widespread among are effective in doing this are either on the
sportsmen and women, but few of these banned list or are associated with serious
products are supported by a sound research health risks (or both).
base and some may even be harmful to the Compounds in the muscle building category
athlete. Athletes should look carefully at the include chromium, boron,
risks and rewards of individual supplements hydroxymethylbutyrate, colostrum and others.
before trying them. Based on current research, none of these has
Where there is a demonstrated deficiency anything worthwhile to offer the athlete.
of an essential vitamin or mineral, and an
increased intake from food is not possible, a Increasing energy supply
supplement may be helpful. The use of Supplements in this category include carnitine,
supplements, however, does not compensate pyruvate and ribose as well as some more
for poor food choices and an inadequate diet. exotic herbal preparations. None of these is
Many athletes ignore the need for caution in likely to improve performance and, in spite of
supplement use, and take supplements in advertising claims, none is supported by good
doses that are not necessary, and may independent evidence.
even be harmful.
Nutrition and the immune system
Protein powders and supplements There is some evidence that athletes who are
Protein supplements, high protein bars and training hard may be at increased risk of minor
amino acid preparations are among the biggest illnesses and infections. In themselves, these
selling sports nutrition products. Although an are generally trivial, but they can interrupt
adequate intake of protein is essential for training or cause an athlete to miss important
muscle growth and repair, this can easily be competitions. Hard training may compromise
 athletes medical information
the bodys immune system, and high levels of Creatine. Creatine supplements can increase
stress hormones reduce its ability to fight these the amount of high energy creatine phosphate
infections. stored in the muscles, and may improve
Many nutrition supplements, including performance in single or multiple sprints. It
glutamine, zinc, Echinacea, colostrum and may also lead to a gain in muscle mass, which
others, are on sale with claims that they can is helpful for some athletes but harmful for
boost the immune system, but there is no others. As with all supplements, exceeding the
strong evidence that any of these is effective. maximum effective dose is not helpful.
The best evidence supports the use of a high Creatine is normally found in meat and fish,
carbohydrate diet, which lowers stress hormone but the doses used (10-20 g per day for 4-5
levels, and appropriate rest periods. days to load, and 2-3 g per day for
maintenance) are more than is found in normal
Supplements for bone and joint health foods. Creatine supplementation appears not to
Hard training puts extra wear and tear on the be harmful to health.
bones, joints and associated structures, and
numerous supplements are claimed to look Caffeine. A small amount of caffeine (1-3
after these tissues. mg/kg) can help performance in prolonged
Healthy bones need a good supply of calcium exercise and may also be helpful in exercise of
and Vitamin D. In most cases these nutrients shorter duration. Such moderate doses can be
can be supplied by the diet. Athletes who suffer found in everyday amounts of coffee, cola
from problems related to sub-optimal bone drinks and some sports products (e.g. gels).
density should seek professional advice and For example, 100 mg of caffeine is supplied by
supervised treatment from a sports physician. a small cup of brewed coffee or 750 ml of a
Glucosamine, chondroitin, cola drink. Larger doses of caffeine do not
methylsulphonylmethane (MSM) and other seem to be more effective, and may have
products are promoted for joint health. There is negative outcomes such as over-arousal and
some evidence that long-term (2-6 months) poor sleep patterns after an event. This is likely
glucosamine treatment can provide subjective to be a problem in multi-day events and in
relief in elderly individuals suffering from sports involving heats and finals.
osteoarthritis, but there little no evidence of
benefit for otherwise healthy athletes. Bicarbonate. In very hard exercise, the muscles
produce lactic acid. This is both good (giving
Supplements that might work energy to allow hard efforts) and bad (causing
Some supplements do offer the prospect of pain and interfering with muscle function). In
improved performance: these include creatine, the same way that excess stomach acidity can
caffeine, bicarbonate, and perhaps a very be neutralised by taking bicarbonate, so sodium
few others. bicarbonate (in a dose of about 0.3 g per kg
athletes medical information

body weight) before an event can counter the

harmful effects of lactic acid. This can help in
all-out events lasting from about 1-8 minutes.
There is a risk of gastrointestinal problems, and
athletes should experiment in training.

A number of sports foods have been

developed to supply a specific formulation
of energy and nutrients in a form that is
easy to consume. These can be valuable
in allowing athletes to meet their special
nutrition needs when everyday foods are
unavailable or impractical to eat. This is
most often the case just prior to, during,
or after an exercise session. Examples of
useful sports foods include:
l sports drinks (providing fluid and
carbohydrate during exercise),
l sports gels (additional carbohydrate
intake, especially during exercise)
l liquid meals (carbohydrate, protein,
vitamins and minerals for a pre-event
meal, post-exercise recovery or a
high-energy diet)
l sports bars (carbohydrate, protein,
vitamins and minerals often a solid
form of the liquid meal)
Of course, the cost of these sports foods
must be taken into account when
deciding to use them.
 athletes medical information
Supplements and
doping issues
Athletes who are liable for drug testing under Mummio. All of these claims are based on
national or international programs should be studies in test tubes and none has been shown
especially cautious about supplement use. to work in humans. Athletes are cautioned
Some supplements are prepared in against the use of these supplements.
unhygienic conditions and contain toxins that
may cause gastrointestinal problems. Others do
not contain ingredients especially the Athletes must be aware of the strict
expensive ones that are listed on the label. liability principle that makes them
Contamination of dietary supplements with responsible for everything they eat and
substances that may cause an athlete to fail a drink.
doping test is widespread some surveys have
suggested that as many as one in four Ignorance is not an acceptable excuse for
supplements may result in a positive test. a positive doping result.
These prohibited compounds have not been
declared on the label, so there is no way for the Check all supplements with a medical
athlete to know that they are present. officer. If there is any doubt at all, dont
At present, there can be no guarantee of the take it.
purity of any commercial supplement. The only
way to be sure is to avoid supplements
altogether, but many athletes are unwilling to
accept this advice. The sensible athlete will
want to see very good reasons for using a
supplement and a very low risk of an adverse
test before deciding to use it.
There is no evidence that prohormones such
as Androstenedione and Norandrostenedione
are effective in enhancing muscle mass or
strength. These prohormones are promoted for
use by athletes and are readily available in
shops and via the internet, but they will result
in negative health consequences as well as
positive drug tests.
Many herbal supplements are claimed to
increase testosterone levels and hence have an
anabolic action. These include: Tribulis
Terrestris; Chrysin; Indole-3-Carbinol; Saw
Palmetto; Gamma-oryzanol; Yohimbine; Smilax;
athletes medical information

Special needs for

endurance sports
Training issues l Starchy vegetables and legumes
A demanding endurance training program l Flavoured dairy foods (e.g. yoghurt)
usually involves daily or twice daily workouts. l Sugary foods and drinks
Inadequate refuelling leads to fatigue and
ineffective training. Nutrient-dense carbohydrate choices, and the
Low body fat levels may benefit addition of protein-rich foods and vegetables to
performance, and are pursued obsessively by meals, will help to balance fuel needs and other
some athletes. Severe restriction of energy nutrition goals.
intake and dietary variety can lead to fatigue, Sugary foods and drinks provide a compact
nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances form of carbohydrate, which is particularly
and disordered eating. useful when energy needs are high or in
Lengthy, high-intensity workouts lead to high situations when it is impractical to eat bulky
sweat losses, particularly in hot weather. foods.
Requirements for protein, vitamins and Endurance athletes with very high energy
minerals may also be increased by a heavy needs may find it valuable to spread their daily
training load. food intake over a series of meals and snacks.
Drinks providing carbohydrate (sports drinks,
Competition issues soft drinks, juices, fruit smoothies, and
The main factors causing fatigue during milkshakes) also provide a compact way to
competition are fuel (carbohydrate) depletion refuel.
and dehydration. Strategies for eating before, Key strategies to achieve lighter and leaner
during and after the event are important to physiques include low-fat eating, and attention
reduce these effects. to portion sizes (see section 12). Well-placed
Competition is often undertaken in multiple snacks may help prevent hunger and energy
stages, or as a series of heats and finals. drain over the day and may prevent overeating
Recovery between sessions can be important in at the next meal.
determining the final winner. Fluid and fuel replacement are key issues
during most competitive events, and the athlete
Eating strategies for the endurance athlete should prepare for competition by fuelling up in
To achieve carbohydrate intake targets to meet the day(s) leading up to the event and ensuring
the fuel demands of training and recovery, that they are well-hydrated. For events lasting
meals and snacks should be based around longer than about 90-120 minutes, many
carbohydrate-rich foods. athletes carbohydrate load, by tapering their
l Breads and flour-based foods training and increasing carbohydrate intake for
l Rice, pasta, noodles and other grain foods 2-3 days prior to the race.
l Breakfast cereals The pre-event meal offers a final way to top-
l Fruits up fuel and fluid levels, and menu choices
 athletes medical information
should be based around carbohydrate-rich
eating. The ideal amount and type of foods and Carbohydrate choices for race fuel
drinks, and the timing of the pre-event meal, 30 g carbohydrate is provided by:
will vary between athletes and should be fine- l 400-500 ml of a sports drink
tuned with experience to avoid gastrointestinal l 250 ml of a defizzed soft drink
disturbances during the event. l ~1 packet sports gel
In long events there may be a need and l ~ 3/4 sports bar
opportunity to refuel and rehydrate on the l 1 large or 2 small bananas
run. Sports drinks provide a good balance of l 1 thick slice of bread and jam/honey
fluid and carbohydrate to meet both goals, and l 35-40 g candy/confectionery
are designed to taste good to encourage intake.
Each athlete should develop a fluid intake plan Remember fluid needs too!
based on knowledge of expected sweat losses
and how much of this is practicable to replace.
Fluid intake should not exceed sweat losses. In
very long events, sports bars, gels and
everyday carbohydrate foods provide an
additional source of carbohydrate for variety
and extra fuel intake. Typically, a fuel intake of
~ 20-60 g per hour is suitable, but should be
fine-tuned according to individual needs and
experience. Race day strategies should be tried
in training, both to enhance the session and to
fine-tune the competition plan.
After a race or workout, the athlete should
eat and drink to promote quick recovery. Light
and portable recovery snacks are a useful
choice until the normal meal pattern is resumed
(See team sports for ideas).
athletes medical information

Special needs for

team sports
Training issues Match issues
l Many team sports involve seasonal l Competition can be played in weekly league
competition. At the recreational level, the off- games, or as a tournament with games ever
season can be lengthy and players often day or several days. Recovery needs must
lose fitness and gain body fat as a result of be adjusted according to the schedule.
detaining and poor eating practices. This l Depletion of fuel stores can be an issue for
may also occur during the season when team games lasting longer than 60 minutes,
players are injured. At the elite level, most especially for players in mobile positions or
team athletes train all year, with just a brief with a running game style. High
break between seasons. carbohydrate strategies fuelling up for the
l Refuelling is an important part of the game and consuming extra carbohydrate
recovery between matches, and from the during the match have been shown to
team and individual training sessions that enhance performance in team sports.
occur between games. Traditionally, many Hydration strategies are also important for
team players have focussed on fuelling up optimal performance. Better match nutrition
only on the day before a match or in the may not only keep players running further
pre-event meal. However, the daily demands and faster in the second half of a match, but
of training are best met by a permanent may help to maintain skills and judgement
approach to adequate fuel intake. when players would otherwise become
l Physique is important in the performance of fatigued. Games are often won and lost in
some sporting codes, or positions within a the last minutes of the match, and fatigued
code. Many team athletes have special players are at increased risk of injury.
nutritional needs to support a resistance
training program, or a rapid growth spurt. Eating strategies for team athletes
While protein needs are often emphasised, Team-sport players may adopt the eating
total energy and fuel intake, and the timing strategies outlined for endurance athletes, and
of meals/snacks in relation to training are should eat well and stay active all year round.
perhaps more important. The following strategies may be of additional
l Large fluid losses often go unrecognised in value:
team sports, or are even promoted as a l Many team sports have a large contingent of
means to lose weight or toughen up young players who are fresh from home. It
players. High-intensity work creates large is a good team strategy to organise cooking
sweat losses even in cold weather, and and shopping classes for young players to
special needs should be recognised in warm help them develop the domestic skills and
conditions or when heavy clothing and nutrition knowledge that will allow them to
protective gear is worn. reach their full potential as players, Athletes
looking after themselves for the first time
 athletes medical information
can find it hard to juggle the team
commitments, as well as work/school. Many Ideas for post-exercise recovery snacks
recipe books developed for athletes offer Each choice provides ~ 50 g
quick and nutritious meal ideas suited to the carbohydrate and a valuable source of
special needs of sport. protein and other nutrients
l The pre-event meal is a good opportunity for l 250-350 ml fruit smoothie or liquid
a shared meal, ensuring good last-minute meal
nutritional preparation as well as an l 60 g (1-2 cups) breakfast cereal +
opportunity to boost morale and share final milk + 1 fruit
tactics. Ideas for pre-event meals are l 200 g carton of yoghurt +
found in the Winter sport section, and are cereal/breakfast bar
best provided as a buffet, to allow each l 1 round of meat/cheese and salad
team member to choose their individual sandwiches or roll + 250 ml fruit juice
needs and likes. l 150 g thick crust pizza lean meat
l Various opportunities exist for players to and vegetable toppings and easy on the
refuel and rehydrate during team sports cheese
these include quarter or half time breaks, l 60 g sports bar + 250 ml sports drink
substitutions and time-outs. Some codes
even allow trainers to carry drinks to players
on the arena during breaks in play. A
creative plan should be developed for each
team.
l Post-game or post-training recovery is
another good opportunity for team nutrition.
Alcohol is often a large part of post-game
activities in team sports but should be
discouraged, unless in moderation and after
recovery eating goals are achieved. Post-
game snacks and light meals providing
nutritious forms of carbohydrate and protein
as well as rehydration options will help
players to recover effectively while
celebrating or commiserating the results of
the match.
athletes medical information

Special needs for power

and sprint sports
Training issues can require the athlete to compete in a
l The goal of many power and sprint athletes series of heats, semis and finals, or with
is to enhance muscle mass and strength long periods between rounds of a field event
through specially designed resistance or multi-sport competition. This calls for
training programs. In most cases, these special eating strategies to recover between
athletes believe that their food focus should events or to manage fluid and energy levels
be on protein intake. In fact, there is no over a long day
evidence that very high intakes of protein
(> 2 g per kg BM) are necessary or even Eating strategies for power and strength
advantageous for optimizing the results of athletes
resistance training. It is likely that the best l A key ingredient in a plan designed to
results are achieved through enhanced enhance muscle size and strength is
recovery strategies such as providing a adequate energy intake. Energy should be
source of protein and carbohydrate supplied both by carbohydrate-rich foods
immediately before or after the workout. that provide fuel for training as well as
l Many power and sprint athletes forget to protein- and nutrient-rich foods that can
bring a drink bottle to training. However, provide building blocks for the results.
workouts are best undertaken when the l Recent evidence suggests that enhanced
athlete is well-hydrated and well-fuelled. effects on protein balance are achieved by
Fuelling with a sports drink can help the following up a resistance workout with a
athlete to keep lifting or training with a good meal or snack providing a good source of
technique, right to the end of a long session. protein and carbohydrate soon after the
l There are numerous supplements that claim session. It may be even more valuable to
to promote recovery, increase muscle mass, consume this recovery snack immediately
reduce body fat and enhance performance. before the workout.
These claims are attractive to all athletes, l A few supplements and sports foods provide
but seem particularly entwined with the valuable benefits to the athletes training and
world of body building and strength training. competition program. It is important for the
Many athletes are not aware that the claims athlete to seek up-to-date and independent
made for most products are unsupported or advice from a sports nutrition expert to
exaggerated, and that the industry operates identify these products and how to use them
with little regulation. to suit the athletes current program, budget
and performance goals.
Competition issues l On the day of competition, the athlete
l Most sprint events are conducted over a should consume a comfortable pre-event
short time, with minimal impact on fluid and meal, and organise appropriate
carbohydrate levels. However, competition carbohydrate-rich drinks and light snacks to
 athletes medical information
stay fuelled and hydrated between events or
bouts in a multi-event program. Food combinations supplying
carbohydrate and protein
l Breakfast cereal and milk
Strategies for high energy eating l Sandwiches with meat, cheese or egg
l It is usually more efficient to increase fillings
the number of times that food is eaten l Meat/fish/chicken stir-fries served with
each day for example, a series of 5- rice or noodles
9 meals and snacks than trying l Fruit smoothies or liquid meal
simply to increase the size of meals. supplements
l Drinks such as fruit smoothies, liquid l Fruit and yoghurt
meal supplements and fortified l Dried fruit and nut mixes
milkshakes and juices can provide a
substantial source of energy and
nutrients that are quick and compact
to consume, and less likely to cause
gastrointestinal discomfort than bulky
foods.
l Sugary foods and specialised sports
products (drinks, bars) can provide a
more compact form of carbohydrate
and other nutrients, which is
particularly useful when energy needs
are high.
l A food record can identify the times in
a busy day that arent being well used
for fuelling up. The athlete should use
creative ideas and good planning to
arrange a supply of portable snacks
and drinks that can travel with them
over their day.
athletes medical information

Special needs for winter

sports
Training and competition issues fuel needs during an event will generally be
l Winter sports encompass a wide range of maintained while fluid needs are lower than
events endurance events such as cross- when the same event is undertaken in a
country skiing, team games such as ice hot environment. Therefore, many athletes
hockey, sprint events such as speed skating, refuel with more concentrated carbohydrate
and weight conscious sports such as figure drinks sometimes up to 25%
skating. In most cases, the major nutritional concentration or add carbohydrate gels
needs for these sports are derived from the and solid foods to the event menu.
physiological characteristics of the event and Experimentation in training will help the
are covered in the previous pages of this athlete develop a successful competition day
booklet. program.
l Additional nutritional issues for Winter sport l Movement on snow and ice is more complex
athletes include the special needs arising than running over ground, and has a greater
from the environments in which they are risk of injury and accidents. There is some
often undertaken extreme cold and high evidence that a fatigued athlete is at greater
altitude. risk of these problems, and the winter sport
athlete should take a pro-active role in
Special issues for exercise in cold climates maintaining fluid and fuel status during
l In cold weather, many athletes forget about prolonged workouts or during periods of
their fluid needs thinking that their sweat intensive training. Since many training
needs are minimal. In fact, sweat losses can venues are held in wilderness areas, some
be substantial in high-intensity sports of creativity is required to ensure that an
prolonged or intermittent duration, and may adequate supply of foods and fluids are
cause some impairment of performance available during exercise and for speedy
especially if allowed to accumulate over a recovery after the workout.
number of sessions. It can be useful for
athletes involved in high-intensity sports to Special issues for exercise at moderate
undertake fluid monitoring sessions (see altitudes
section 6) during training and events to l The cold and dry conditions at moderate
gauge true fluid needs and their success in altitudes cause an increase in water losses
meeting them. during breathing. This can lead to a
l Fluid intake during exercise also provides an substantial increase in fluid losses at
opportunity for fuel intake for example, moderate altitude compared with sea level.
sports drinks containing 6-8% carbohydrate The winter sport athlete should take
composition are typically able to meet the additional care to check fluid status over the
fuel and fluid needs of warm-weather sports day and during exercise sessions when they
simultaneously. However, in cold climates, move to a higher altitude, since habitual
 athletes medical information
drinking patterns may need to be adjusted to
keep pace with these losses. Iron-rich eating
l There is an increase in carbohydrate use l Consume moderate servings of red
during exercise at altitude, making it more meats (well-absorbed iron) in 3-5
important to be aggressive with refuelling meals per week
strategies during a workout, and over the l Choose iron-fortified cereal products
day. such as breakfast cereals
l Since a move to a higher altitude may l Combine plant and non-meat sources
increase oxidative damage during exercise, of iron (e.g. legumes, cereals, eggs,
and promote adaptive response to increase green leafy vegetables) with food
erythropoiesis (red blood cell production), the factors that enhance iron absorption.
athlete should ensure that their diet is rich in These include vitamin C and a factor
anti-oxidant containing fruits in vegetables, found in meat/fish/chicken. Examples
and in iron-rich foods. of clever matching include fruit juice or
fruit with breakfast cereal, or chilli con
carne (meat and beans)
Ideas for high carbohydrate pre-event
meals*
Breakfast menus
l Breakfast cereal and milk, fresh or
canned fruit
l Toast and jam/honey
l Pancakes and syrup
l Fruit-flavoured yoghurt
l Baked beans or tinned spaghetti on toast
l Liquid meal supplement or fruit
smoothie
Lunch and dinner menus
l Rice dishes risotto, fried rice, paella
l Pasta and light sauce
l Bread, including rolls and sandwiches
l Fruit and fruit based desserts
l Rice pudding
* A low-fat or low-fibre menu may help to
reduce the risk of gastrointestinal
problems in susceptible athletes
athletes medical information

Special needs for weight

conscious sports
Training issues weight division that is lighter than their habitual
The key nutritional interest of many athletes is body weight and gain an advantage over a
to reduce body weight and body fat. A low level smaller opponent. Acute strategies to make
of body weight and body fat often provides a weight expose the athlete to health and
benefit to performance. In other sports involving performance risks arising from dehydration, fuel
subjective outcomes (e.g. gymnastics, diving, depletion, inadequate nutrient intake, and
body building), the athlete who is lean and trim psychological stress.
is judged to have a higher aesthetic appeal.
Although certain body shapes and physiques Strategies for athletes in weight conscious
are held up as de rigueur for many sports, sports
each athlete must be realistic in setting targets Athletes will benefit from professional advice
for the weight and fat loss programs they from an expert such as a sports dietitian to set
undertake. realistic goals for weight and fat loss attempts,
Challenges occur for the athlete whose and a suitable long-term eating plan.
training does not involve high energy The athlete in skill-based sports should seek
expenditure work for example, the athlete their coachs input to introduce or increase
who undertakes lengthy training sessions that aerobic workouts that can increase overall
are primarily based on skill and agility. It is energy expenditure without detriment to key
more difficult to create the energy deficit training sessions. This may include changes to
needed to reduce weight and body fat when lifestyle to increase incidental exercise or
basal energy needs are low to moderate. activity in the day.
Athletes who compete in weight division
l Restrictive eating and fad diets can lead to sports should settle for a weight category that
dehydration and fuel depletion, marring is close to the training weight that can be
training performance and increasing the risk achieved with a safe and healthy plan. Final
of injury and accidents, rather than fine tuning of weight prior to the event should
achieving effective loss of body fat. not involve changes of >1-2% body weight,
and should be undertaken without resort to
Competition issues extreme techniques of dehydration and fasting.
In many combat sports (boxing, wrestling, martial
arts), some strength sports (weight lifting) and l Athletes in weight conscious sports may be
lightweight rowing, competition involves weight at higher risk of disordered eating and
divisions that attempt to provide a match eating disorders than other athletes or the
between athletes of equal size and performance. sedentary population. It is important that
In such sports, athletes typically try to lose athletes who develop warning signs of such
weight in the days before the competition (and problems are refereed at an early stage for
its pre-event weigh in), in order to qualify for a expert team-based advice.
 athletes medical information
Strategies for staying lean and trim Examples of incorporating low
l Assess portion sizes at meals to glycaemic index carbohydrate foods
ensure that over-eating does not occur into meals
due to habit or unnecessary hunger l Enjoy rolled oats (porridge or low-fat
l Use well-chosen snacks between versions of Bircher Muesli) instead of
meals to maintain fuel levels for Cornflakes for breakfast
training sessions or to avoid excessive l Replace white and wholemeal breads
hunger. However, avoid snacking for with wholegrain and multi-grain
entertainment or comfort. Snacks can choices
often be organised by saving part of a l Add lentils and legumes to casseroles
meal for a later occasions, rather than and pasta sauces
by eating extra food. l Enjoy flavoured yoghurt as a snack
l Use low-fat strategies in choosing l Replace mashed potato with al dente
foods and while cooking or preparing pasta or buckwheat
meals
l Make meals and snacks more filling
by including plenty of salads and
vegetables, by taking the higher-fibre
option, and by including low glycaemic
forms of carbohydrate.
l A food record will help to identify the
difference between an athletes
desired eating plan, and their actual
intake. Many people are unaware of
the habits that sabotage their
eating goals
athletes medical information

Special needs for the

travelling athlete
Most elite athletes are well-seasoned travellers, supplies (e.g. airline catering, restaurants en
seeking competition or specialised training route) as well as self-supplied snacks.
environments far away from home. In many
team sports, high-level competition is organised 2. Eat and drink well while on the move
in a national or regional league that requires Recognise that enforced rest while travelling
weekly or biweekly travel to matches. Frequent will reduce energy needs, but create more
travel can pose a number of challenges: opportunities for high energy intake if the
l Disruptions to the normal training routine athlete succumbs to boredom eating. Be
and lifestyle while the athlete is en route aware of eating to real need.
l Changes in climate and environment that When moving to a new time zone, adopt
create different nutritional needs eating patterns that suit your destination as
l Jet lag soon as the trip starts. This will help to adapt
l Changes to food availability including your body clock.
absence of important and familiar foods Be aware of unseen fluid losses in air
l Reliance on hotels, restaurants and conditioned vehicles and pressurised plane
takeaways instead of home cooking cabins. Have a drink plan that keeps you well
l Exposure to new foods and eating cultures hydrated.
l Temptations of an all you can eat dining
hall in an Athletes Village 3. Be wary of food and water hygiene
l Risk of gastrointestinal illnesses due to Find out whether it is safe to drink the local
exposure to food and water with poor water supply. If risky, stick to sealed bottles
hygiene standards of water and other drinks or hot drinks. Be
l Excitement and distraction of a new wary of ice added to drinks it is often made
environment from tap water.
In high-risk environments stick to food
The keys to eating well while travelling are: produced in good hotels or well-known
1. Planning ahead restaurants. Avoid eating food from local stalls
Investigate food patterns and availability at your and markets, however tempting it is to have an
destination before you leave home. This may authentic cultural experience.
help you to plan useful food supplies to take on Stick to food that has been well-cooked, and
your travels that can replace missing and avoid salads or unpeeled fruit that has been in
important items. contact with local water or soil.
Contact the catering organisers at your
destination to let them know of your needs for 4. Choose well from local cuisine and
meal timing and menus. supplement with non-perishable food
l Make an eating plan for travel that supplies brought from home
incorporates the best of the available food
 athletes medical information
Ideas for portable supplies for the
travelling athlete
l Breakfast cereal and powdered milk
l Cereal and breakfast bars
l Rice cakes
l Spreads honey, jam, peanut butter
l Powdered sports drinks and liquid
meal supplements
l Sports bars
l Dried fruit and nuts

5. Use clever tactics in restaurants,

all you can eat dining halls and
when choosing takeaways
Stick to an eating plan based on
what is normally eaten at home, or
what meets new nutritional needs,
rather than being mesmerised by all the
food on offer.
Be assertive in asking for foods to be
prepared to your needs for example, with low
fat cooking methods, or with an added
carbohydrate serving.
Avoid hanging around in restaurants or
dining halls for entertainment it can often
lead to unplanned and unnecessary eating.
l Remember that your normal eating patterns
probably involve well-timed and well-chosen
snacks. If your new catering arrangements
provide only for main meals, ensure that the
menu at meals includes some items that can
be taken away for snack needs.
athletes medical information

References
Nutrition for the athlete is based on
information discussed at the IOC Consensus
Conference on Nutrition for Sport, held in
Lausanne in June 2003. The papers presented
at that meeting were published as a Special
Issue of the Journal of Sports Sciences
(Volume 22 No.1. January 2004)

1. Energy balance and body composition in

sports and exercise Anne Loucks
2. Carbohydrates and fat for training and
recovery Louise Burke, Bente Kiens, John Ivy
3. Pre-exercise carbohydrate and fat ingestion:
effects on metabolism and performance Mark
Hargreaves, John A Hawley, Asker E Jeukendrup
4. Fluid and fuel intake during exercise Ed Coyle
5. Fluid and electrolyte needs for preparation and
recovery from training and competition
Susan Shirreffs, Samuel Cheuvront, Lawrence
Armstrong
6. Protein and amino acids Kevin Tipton,
Bob Wolfe
7. Dietary antioxidants and exercise Scott
Powers, Keith C DeRuisseau, John Quindry,
Karyn L Hamilton
8. Dietary supplements Ron Maughan, Doug
King, Trevor Lea
9. Exercise, nutrition and immune function
Mike Gleeson, Bente Pedersen, David Nieman
10. Nutritional strategies to influence adaptations
to training Lawrence Spriet, Marty Gibala

Commentaries
1. Protein and amino acid requirements of
athletes D. Joe Millward
2. Exertional Hyponatraemia Lawrence
E. Armstrong
 athletes medical information
IOC Consensus Statement
on Sports Nutrition 2003
The amount, composition and timing of food nutrients. A varied diet that meets energy needs
intake can profoundly affect sports will generally provide protein in excess of
performance. Good nutritional practice will help requirements. Muscle mass is maintained or
athletes train hard, recover quickly and adapt increased at these protein intakes, and the
more effectively with less risk of illness and timing of eating carbohydrate and protein may
injury. Athletes should adopt specific nutritional affect the training adaptation.
strategies before and during competition to A high carbohydrate intake in the days
help maximise their performance. Athletes will before competition will help enhance
benefit from the guidance of a qualified sports performance, particularly when exercise lasts
nutrition professional who can provide advice longer than about 60 minutes. Dehydration
on their individual energy and nutrient needs impairs performance in most events, and
and also help them to develop sport-specific athletes should be well hydrated before
nutritional strategies for training, competition exercise. Sufficient fluid should be consumed
and recovery. during exercise to limit dehydration to less than
A diet that provides adequate energy from about 2% of body mass. During prolonged
the consumption of a wide range of commonly exercise the fluid should provide carbohydrate.
available foods can meet the carbohydrate, Sodium should be included when sweat losses
protein, fat, and micronutrient requirements of are high especially if exercise lasts more than
training and competition. The right diet will help about 2 hours. Athletes should not drink so
athletes achieve an optimum body size and much that they gain weight during exercise.
body composition to achieve greater success in During recovery from exercise, rehydration
their sport. When athletes restrict their food should include replacement of both water and
intake, they risk nutrient deficiency that will salts lost in sweat.
impair both their health and their performance. Athletes are cautioned against the
Careful selection of nutrient-dense foods is indiscriminate use of dietary supplements.
especially important when energy intake is Supplements that provide essential nutrients
restricted to reduce body and/or fat mass. Fat may be of help where food intake or food
is an important nutrient and the diet should choices are restricted, but this approach to
contain adequate amounts of fats. achieving adequate nutrient intake is normally
Athletes should aim to achieve carbohydrate only a short term option. The use of
intakes that meet the fuel requirements of their supplements does not compensate for poor
training programs and also adequately replace food choices and an inadequate diet. Athletes
their carbohydrate stores during recovery contemplating the use of supplements and
between training sessions and competition. This sports foods should consider their efficacy, their
can be achieved when athletes eat cost, the risk to health and performance, and
carbohydrate-rich snacks and meals that also the potential for a positive doping test.
provide a good source of protein and other Excessive training and competition are
athletes medical information

associated with some negative consequences.

Robust immunity and reduced risk of infection
can be achieved by consuming a varied diet
adequate in energy and micronutrients,
ensuring adequate sleep and limiting other life
stress. Attention to dietary intake of calcium
and iron is important in athletes at risk of
deficiency but use of large amounts of some
micronutrients may be harmful. Female athletes
with menstrual disorders should be promptly
referred to a qualified specialist physician for
diagnosis and treatment.
Food can contribute not only to the
enjoyment of life, but also to success in sport.

Lausanne, 18 June 2003