Summer is here, and your young athlete is likely showing no signs of slowing down. While their natural inclination for physical activity is a slam dunk for long-term health, the potential lack of structure brought on by summer means parents and caregivers will want to stay tuned-in to how their children are fueling their bodies.
According to Nutrition for Kids, a website dedicated to children’s health and nutrition education, you’ll want to keep the following in mind:
Good Hydration
The nutrient of most immediate concern is water. Drink it before, during and after participating in physical activity for best hydration, rather than waiting until thirsty.
Sports drinks are only helpful when excessive amounts of sweat are lost by being out in the heat or participating in vigorous activity for longer than 90 minutes. Stick with water to keep those sneaky added sugars at bay.
Snack Smart
Make time for snacks that will keep your child energized. Yogurt with a banana, baby carrots with hummus dip, or peanut butter with crackers and apple slices are all examples of smart snacks that require minimal time and effort to prepare. Check out the No-Bake Energy Bites recipe in this newsletter for a smart snack the whole family can have fun making together.
However, if these do not fit into your schedule, or you are needing an option that does not require refrigeration, look for quick, easy, non-perishable bars at the grocery store. They can be a great solution for an on-the-go family. Be sure to check the label for whole ingredients such as oats, whole grains, nuts, seeds and fruit for best nutrition. And prioritize protein content, while limiting added sugar. Compare labels to make the best selection.
Fuel and Replenish
An eating pattern high in saturated fat and added sugar will only serve to hinder your young athlete, especially right before participating in physical activity. Avoid things like fried foods and candy bars before practices or games.
Be sure your child replenishes their body after being physically active, with plenty of fluids (preferably water) and a nutrient-rich meal or snack with a healthy combination of fats, lean protein and whole grains—think bean burrito or a slice of pizza loaded with vegetables. For breakfast—think fruit and yogurt smoothies or an omelet with cheese and vegetables.
Balanced Nutrition
The more active your child is, the more carbohydrate they’ll need to fuel their muscles. Fatigue, weight loss and lack of endurance are signs the body’s carbohydrate stores need replenishing. Nutrient-rich foods like starchy vegetables, whole grains, beans and legumes will do the trick to get them back on track.
The best way to ensure your child is getting all the nutrients their body needs to grow and develop is by encouraging them to eat foods from each of the five food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy. MyPlate.gov has a wealth of information on incorporating a variety of healthy choices from each food group. Following these recommendations is good for everyone—athlete or not—so your whole family will reap the benefits all summer long.
No Bake Energy Bites
- ¾ cup quick oats
- ¼ cup wheat bran
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup nut butter (peanut, soy, almond, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 Tablespoons dried fruit (raisins, dried cranberries, etc.)
- 1 Tablespoon slivered almonds (optional)
- 2 Tablespoons mini chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- In a small bowl, mix together oats and wheat bran.
- In a medium bowl, combine honey, nut butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until mixed well.
- Add oat mixture to honey mixture.
- Stir in dried fruit, almonds and chocolate chips, if desired.
- Spray cooking spray on one hand. Rub hands together.
- Using a spoon to portion out a small amount, roll mixture into 15 balls and serve.
- Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator or freezer.
Nutrition Information:
- Serving Size (1 bite):
- Calories 70
- Total Fat 2.5g
- Saturated Fat 0g
- Cholesterol 0mg
- Sodium 20mg
- Total Carbohydrates 11g
- Fiber 1g
- Total Sugars 7g, includes 6g Added Sugars
- Protein 2g
- Vitamin D 0%
- Calcium 0%
- Iron 0%
- Potassium 0%
Source:
WeCook: Fun with Food and Fitness. (2018). No-Bake Energy Bites.
Sources:
Nutrition for Kids. (2018). Feeding the Young Athlete
WeCook: Fun with Food and Fitness. (2018). No-Bake Energy Bites.
This newsletter was reviewed and updated in 2021.
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