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A well-chosen diet offers many benefits to all athletes, irrespective of event, sex, age or level of competition:
- Optimal gains from the training program
- Enhanced recovery within and between workouts and events
- A reduced risk of injury and illness
- Confidence in being well-prepared for competition
- Consistency in achieving high-level performances
- Enjoyment of food and social eating occasions
Common problems and challenges include:
- Despite these advantages, many athletes do not meet their nutrition goals.
- Poor or outdated knowledge of sports nutrition
- Busy lifestyle leading to inadequate time to obtain or consume appropriate foods
- Poor availability of good food and drink choices
- Indiscriminate use of supplements and sports foods