Sports Nutrition

What you eat and drink matters a lot when you play sports. Good food gives your body the energy it needs. Drinking water keeps you from getting too hot and tired.

Eating for Energy

Your body is like a car. It needs fuel to run. Foods like pasta, bread, and fruit give you energy. Protein from chicken, beans, and eggs helps build strong muscles. Fruits and vegetables give your body vitamins.

Eating a healthy meal a few hours before a game gives you energy to play your best. A small snack like a banana or granola bar is a good choice before practice.

Staying Hydrated

Drinking water is super important for athletes. When you sweat, your body loses water. If you do not drink enough, you can feel dizzy and tired. This is called dehydration.

You should drink water before, during, and after exercise. Sports drinks can help too, but water is usually the best choice for kids. Staying hydrated helps you think clearly and move quickly on the field.

Fun Facts

• Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps used to eat over 8,000 calories a day while training.
• Bananas are one of the most popular snacks for athletes because they are full of energy.
• Your body is about 60 percent water, which is why staying hydrated is so important.

Did You Know?

Chocolate milk is actually a great drink after exercise because it has the right mix of protein, carbs, and water to help your body recover!