What is the first goal for athletes in terms of diet planning? Why? What is the meaning of nutrient density? Why is nutrient density important? Gives examples of foods> What is a diet prescription? Describe how (the order) a dietary prescription plan is developed for an athlete. Who is able to provide a diet prescription for an athlete? Why? The First Goal for Athletes in Terms of Diet Planning: Nutrient Density and Diet Prescription

The First Goal for Athletes in Terms of Diet Planning: Nutrient Density and Diet Prescription

Nutrition plays an essential role in the success of athletes, which is why the first goal of any diet planning for athletes should be to ensure nutrient density. Nutrient density is the ratio of nutrients to calories in food. It is a measure of the number of essential vitamins and minerals relative to energy content. Nutrient density is important because it allows athletes to get the most out of their food while avoiding empty calories, which can lead to unhealthy weight gain. Examples of nutrient-dense foods include leafy greens, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and fish. A diet prescription is a personalized diet plan that is tailored to the needs of the athlete. It should be based on the individual’s age, gender, body composition, size, activity level, and health status. The order of a dietary prescription plan is typically determined by a Registered Dietitian or Nutritionist (Huggins, 2018). They will assess the athlete’s needs and develop a customized plan based on the individual’s goals and lifestyle. This plan may include changes to eating habits and exercise, as well as supplement recommendations. A Registered Dietitian or Nutritionist is the best choice to provide a diet prescription for athletes because they are qualified and experienced in sports nutrition, and have the necessary knowledge to create a plan that is tailored to the athlete’s individual needs ()Clarys et al., 2020. Cont…