Importance and Requirements of Nutrition for Sports Persons

Post event: carbohydrate is the main focus nutrient. Carbohydrate restores the muscle glycogen (the primary fuel source for muscles) and allows energy for next training session. Protein is required in smaller quantities, to enhance the process of tissue repair and muscle building, damaged during event. The ratio of carbohydrate to protein is 4:1. Within 30 minutes after of the even a 200-300 calorie, high carbohydrate snack followed by another after 2 hours will be able to ensure this. Examples are cereals with low fat milk or curd, low fat fruit smoothies, low fat chocolates milk, chicken sandwich, etc.

• To conclude we can say that: Both the quality and the quantity of food along with the timings have a profound impact on performance.
• Proper nutrition:
  • Ensures adequate energy stores for competition
  • enhances recovery between and post events
  • Minimizes muscle damage (reduced risk of injury and illness) and
  • Reduces the risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies