Athletes have different nutritional needs than their less active peers. Experts agree that adequate, well-timed nutrition enables and enhances intensive athletic performance. It maximizes gains in speed, strength, and agility; shortens the recovery period; provides nutrients that increase health; and reduces the risk of injury and illness.
At SAGE, we created Performance Spotlight™ to address athletic nutrition at school. Our Registered Dietitians crafted this program based on recommendations from the U.S. Olympic Committee, NCAA, and other sports associations.
We teach student athletes what to eat using our Dietitian-selected Performance picks, menu items that have what it takes to keep athletes fueled properly. Our Fueling Your Team catering guide provides appropriate options for team meals as well as on-the-go snacks and small meals for before, during, and after games. We give athletes guidelines for building a plate full of grains/starches, proteins, and veggies on training and game days.
Grains and starches provide carbohydrates, which break down quickly into the body’s preferred fuel. Consuming carbohydrates before and during exercise provides energy, prevents low blood sugar, and contributes to healthy central nervous system function.
Proteins build and repair muscle, regulate metabolism, and support immune health. Consumption of high-quality protein (e.g., eggs, lean meat, milk, tofu) immediately following and up to a day after exercise is beneficial.
Fruits and vegetables support the whole body with micronutrients — the vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that promote general health, contribute to metabolism, and serve as antioxidants.
To make sure athletes have quality fuel that gives their bodies the most energy possible, we created our own clean-label recipes for house-made sports drinks and bars. The drinks have the simple carbohydrates, electrolytes, and water that athletes need to keep them going during intense or extended activity, and the bars provide the carbohydrates and protein they need to top off their energy stores and begin recovery. Plus, they taste great!
With guidance from Performance Spotlight™, athletes can learn how to get the proper nutrients at the right time.
