Athletes require dietary advice, but it should not be generic; it needs to be tailored to their specific sport, which is known as sports nutrition. Sports nutrition involves adapting daily nutrition to match the physical demands of the sport, considering both the macro view (such as the duration of a training program) and the micro view (the type of exercise performed on a given day). While the term « dietetics » is often associated with restrictive diets in the general public, talking about sports nutrition or dietetics in sports refers to the same concept.
Sports nutrition is surrounded by numerous misconceptions that can hinder many athletes who are unaware of them. For instance, the belief that avoiding fats is beneficial is a major mistake, as healthy fats are essential (especially for aerobic exercise). Balanced nutrition is not a myth; it requires daily effort.
Sports nutrition encompasses pre-workout nutrition (weeks leading up to an event, race-day meals, breakfast) as well as during and post-workout nutrition. It is also important to understand the role of nutrients or active compounds in products or foods (for example, the purpose of sodium, magnesium, or probiotics).
Each sport also has its specific nutritional needs, which is why I have created a category dedicated to nutrition by sport (marathon, trail running, triathlon, cycling, football, rugby, etc.).
For those who are vegetarian or have food allergies (gluten, lactose), I have written articles to address sports nutrition within these constraints or choices.
Lastly, as a passionate advocate of clinical nutrition, I provide insights into clinical dietetics based on specific pathologies or areas for improvement.
Some questions on sports nutrition
Why is it important to adapt your diet based on your physical activity?
The body requires energy substrates (such as carbohydrates and fats) to produce energy, so the daily diet must provide the fuel necessary to meet the energy demands generated by training.
Is it beneficial to combine dieting with physical training?
No, it is actually one of the biggest mistakes. When you engage in physical training, your body taps into its energy reserves. If you reduce your food intake, there is a high chance that your performance will decline, and you may even risk injury.
Is sports nutrition only relevant for professionals?
Absolutely not. On the contrary, the more amateurs become aware of its importance, the more they will experience positive effects. It is worth noting that although I work with professional athletes, the majority of my patients are amateurs.
Nicolas AUBINEAU
Sports and Clinical Nutritionist
