Nutrition for teen athletes

This year has been unexpected and challenging, and as we near a new school year, many things are still unknown about how this school year will look. One unknown is will there be sports? Colorado High School Activities Association has received approval for some sports and is still waiting to hear back about others. While waiting, there are many ways high school athletes can focus on their upcoming seasons, and one very important component is nutrition.

Nutrition is not only important during a sports competition but preseason and postseason as well. Teens are still growing, and therefore nutrition practices can impact training, performance and overall health.

The main focus for a teen athlete should be making sure they are eating and drinking enough. Teen athletes are still growing while they are participating in long, intense exercise sessions. They need to eat enough calories, vitamins and minerals to provide energy and nutrients for exercise as well as developing strong and healthy bodies.

The easiest way to determine if a teen athlete is eating enough is to let them eat when they are hungry. Teens should eat at least three meals each day, and athletes should include snacks between the meals or before and after physical activity.

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