Nutrition for youth rugby

The nutritional requirements of a youth rugby player are influenced by their biological growth and maturation, physical development and the demands of training and competition. This chapter reviews the current literature on nutrition of youth rugby players, including energy requirements, dietary intakes, hydration, micronutrients and supplements. In summary, the energy and macronutrient requirements of youth rugby players are dictated by their total energy expenditures which increase with age and body size. Whilst youth rugby players appear to meet their daily fat and protein intakes, many players fail to achieve optimal carbohydrate intakes. Furthermore, diet quality does not meet current recommendations, although it does appear to improve with age. The hydration requirements of youth players do not appear to differ from those of their adult counterparts; however, adolescent players may have a greater need for calcium and iron. Finally, although many players regularly consume dietary supplements, there is limited evidence to support their use within this population. Future research is required, particularly in youth female players, to establish nutritional requirements and enhance nutritional practices.

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