Nutrition and Physical Performance

In brief

Physical training increases the nutrient requirements of total calories, proportion of carbohydrates, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, iron, water, salt, and perhaps chromium. Conscious adjustments must usually be made in total calories, carbohydrates, water, salt, and iron consumption to maintain optimal performance levels. But thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and chromium requirements should be met by simply eating more of a varied diet. Eating that promotes obesity, semistarvation, dehydration, and excess vitamin supplementation are counterproductive to physical training. The best pregame meal is normal, well-balanced, and based on the athlete's personal preferences, time of eating, and the competitive event.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ralph A. Nelson

Dr. Nelson is the director of research at Carle Foundation Hospital and a professor of nutrition in the School of Clinical Medicine at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. He is a member of the editorial board of THE PHYSICIAN AND SPORTSMEDICINE