An Athletic Eating Plan That Is Right For You

May 21, 2007

Athletes may burn more calories then the average person, therefore they may need to eat more calories. But there is no one set calorie level for all athletes. Your calorie needs depend on factors like what sport you play, how often, the intensity of activity and your body size.

For example:

• A 200-pound football player uses more energy than a 90-pound gymnast.
• A baseball player uses less energy than a soccer player, who’s almost constantly in motion.
• A cross-country skier or a long-distance runner likely uses more energy overall than a tennis player or a golfer who uses spurts of energy.

Athletes: Consult a registered dietitian to determine a healthful eating plan that meets your calorie needs.

Produced by ADA’s Public Relations Team