Special Diets

If you are like most sports parents, you simply want to know how to find valid information that tells you what and when to feed your young athlete so they can perform at their best. Here's a list of websites, books, and key resources to help you fuel wisely, eat healthfully, and feel confident with your food choices.

It isn't just the average person who has quirky eating habits. Elite athletes like Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt do, too.

Experiencing the Food & Nutrition Expo at the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetic Association's annual convention is an eating adventure! Several hours and many calories later, I emerged from the Expo with a sampling of items that can contribute to an effective sports diet. Here is brief snapshot of some of what I saw.

Being injured is one of the hardest parts of being an athlete. If your child is unable to exercise due to a broken bone, knee surgery, stress fracture, or concussion, you may wonder: What can she eat to heal quickly? How can she avoid getting fat while she's unable to exercise? Should she be taking supplements? This article will address those concerns, and more.

While recent research concerning soy and blood glucose or insulin control has produced conflicting results, Dr. Mark Messina, associate adjunct professor of nutrition at Loma Linda University, believes soy can play an important role in managing blood sugar levels. "I think the most that can be said at this point is that soyfoods have a low glycemic index," Messina says. "The carbohydrate in soy does not lead to a quick rise in blood sugar levels, and thus, soy is useful for diabetics."