Nutritional Recommendations for the Young Athlete

Abstract

Adolescent athletes require nutrition that meets their demands for performance and energy expenditure, yet over half of the adolescents in the United States receive low-quality nutrition. To support the sport performance and overall health of this group, physicians need evidence-based, practical nutrition recommendations to disseminate to young athletes, their parents, and coaches. This narrative review serves to inform guidance on young athlete nutrition, nutrient timing, hydration, dietary supplementation, and educational interventions. Key Concepts• 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.