Module 1: Nutritional requirements

Nutrition for sports performance

1. Introduction to the unit
2. Nutrition basics: Nutrients
   1. Carbohydrates
   2. Fat
   3. Protein
3. Water
4. Vitamins
5. Minerals
6. Fibre
7. Components of the diet activity

Water

The human body is made up of two thirds water, and so water plays an important part in the daily function of a sports performer, who will need to replenish these supplies on a regular basis.

Water helps carry nutrients around the body, it helps control body temperature and it helps lubricate joints in the body. Water also helps with chemical reactions and helps remove waste from the body.

For a normal person, around 2 to 3 litres of fluid a day is lost as urine, sweat and as vapour when breathing. When exercising the body loses even more water and is at risk of dehydration, so it is essential to keep taking small sips of fluid at regular intervals during exercise to enable the body to function properly.