MCQs 6

Study Notes

Nutrition in Sports

Good nutrition is essential for optimal athletic performance, recovery, weight management, and injury risk reduction.
Key components of nutrition include macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals).

Macronutrients

Macronutrients provide energy and support growth and repair.

Carbohydrates

Primary fuel source, crucial for energy during exercise.
Lack of carbohydrates can lead to decreased performance and slower recovery.
Divided into:
- Simple Carbohydrates: Quickly absorbed sugars; found in sweets, should be limited to avoid weight gain and tooth decay.
- Complex Carbohydrates: Starches with sustained energy; found in whole grains, vegetables, legumes.
Carbohydrate intake recommendations:
- Low to moderate activity: 5-8g/kg body weight
- Moderate to high activity: 8-10g/kg body weight
- Extremely high activity: 10-12g/kg body weight
Example: A 74 kg individual requires approximately 666g of carbohydrates daily.

Protein

Vital for tissue building and repair; comprises amino acids.
Sources: meat, fish, dairy, beans, nuts; recommended intake is 1.2-1.7g/kg body weight.
Example: An 80 kg individual should aim for about 120g protein daily.

Fats

Provides concentrated energy and aids vitamin absorption; essential for organ protection and cell growth.
Healthy fats: nuts, seeds, fish; unhealthy fats: processed meats, butter.
Balancing fat intake is crucial for performance and body composition.

Micronutrients

Needed in smaller amounts; important for immune function and overall health.

Minerals

Essential for bone health and other bodily functions; examples include:
- Calcium: Strengthens bones and supports muscle function.
- Iron: Necessary for oxygen transport in blood.
- Potassium: Regulates fluid balance and muscle contractions.
- Magnesium: Supports muscle/nervous function.

Vitamins

Essential for metabolism and overall physiological functions; examples include:
- Vitamin A: Supports vision and immune health; found in fish and dairy.
- Vitamin C: Aids immune function and skin health; found in citrus fruits.
- Vitamin D: Improves calcium absorption for bone health; found in oily fish.
- Vitamin B12: Critical for nerve function and red blood cell production; found in eggs.

Nutritional Strategies Around Exercise

Before Exercise: Carbohydrate loading can enhance glycogen reserves for endurance activities.
During Exercise: Quick energy sources like energy gels help replenish glycogen and delay fatigue.
After Exercise: Focus on refueling (carbohydrates), repairing (proteins), and rehydrating (fluids and electrolytes) within 90-120 minutes.

Sports Supplements

Designed to enhance performance and recovery; available as powders, bars, and drinks.
Common supplements include:
- Protein Powders: Assist in muscle repair and growth.
- Creatine: Increases muscle strength and endurance.
- BCAAs: Reduce muscle fatigue and promote recovery.
- Electrolyte Drinks: Replenish fluids and minerals lost through sweat.

Hydration

Maintaining fluid balance is critical for health and performance.
Factors influencing sweating include genetics, environment, clothing, and activity level.
Dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and severe complications.
Rehydration involves restoring lost fluids and electrolytes; a guideline is 400-800 ml per hour of exercise.

Team Nutrition Strategy Example

24 Hours Before the Game

Emphasize hydration and balanced meals with carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

3-4 Hours Before the Game

Consume a high-carbohydrate, moderate-protein, low-fat meal; hydrate with 500-700 ml of water.

1-2 Hours Before the Game

Hydrate with 200-300 ml of water; consume light, easily digestible snacks.

30 Minutes Before the Game

Sip on 150-200 ml of water or electrolyte drink; optional light snack for final energy boost.

During and After the Game

Maintain hydration with small, regular fluid intake and consume simple carbohydrates during breaks.
Post-game, hydrate and consume a recovery meal rich in carbohydrates and protein within 2 hours.

Sports Drinks vs Energy Drinks

Sports Drinks: Isotonic drinks replenish fluids and electrolytes effectively.
Energy Drinks: Contain stimulants aimed at providing quick energy, but are less effective for hydration post-exercise.

Energy Systems

ATP-PC System: Provides immediate energy for high-intensity efforts lasting 0-10 seconds.
Anaerobic System: Supports high-intensity activities lasting 10-90 seconds; relies on glucose breakdown and produces lactic acid.
Aerobic System: Utilizes oxygen for sustained energy in lower-intensity activities; efficient for endurance.

Description

Test your knowledge on the importance of nutrition, hydration, and supplements in sports. This quiz covers macronutrients and micronutrients, their roles in athletic performance, and recovery. Improve your understanding of how proper nutrition can enhance sports performance and overall health.

MCQs 6

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of carbohydrate loading before an event?

What is the recommended protein intake for an individual weighing 80 kg?

What happens when an athlete's glycogen stores become depleted during exercise?

Which of the following micronutrients is crucial for muscle and nerve function?

What benefit does creatine provide to athletes?

What is the recommended fluid intake during exercise?

Which meal component should be emphasized 1-2 hours before a game?

What are isotonic sports drinks primarily used for?

What is a common symptom of dehydration?

What is one primary role of carbohydrates in an athlete's nutrition?

Which source is primarily associated with the intake of simple carbohydrates?

How should carbohydrate intake be adjusted based on activity levels for individuals with moderate to high activity?

What is the effect of not consuming enough carbohydrates during performance?

What type of carbohydrate is described as taking longer to digest?