Nutritional Recommendations for the Young Athlete

Abstract

•Individualized assessments of energy requirements as well as hydration status are key to optimizing nutritional plans for young athletes.•Nutritional plans should consider both the content and timing of meals, particularly in the pre- and post-physical activity windows.•In general, the literature does not support dietary supplement utilization to enhance performance in young athletes.•Whether via interventional programs or physician counseling, guiding young athletes on the cultivation of sustainable dietary habits is critical for long-term healthy behaviors and resultant optimal performance.

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