Exercise is essential to promote the full development of the body and to promote and maintain an optimal state of health both in the short and long term.
A balanced diet is the most suitable way to meet the energy and nutritional needs of athletes (both amateur and professional) and the whole population. Proper nutrition is an adequate and varied combination of foods aimed at meeting energy needs (calories), nutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals) as well as the other nutrients such as water and dietary fibre.
Physical activity can make the biggest impact on promoting the full development of the body, on long-term prevention and on the promotion of health.
Diet also plays an important role in sport. Although there are no miracle foods, diet alone can improve physical performance and, combined with adequate training, it allows maximum competitive performance.
It should be remembered that physical activity and proper nutrition prevent the onset of obesity. Particular attention should be paid to childhood obesity, which is increased by reduced movement and a growing interest in television, video games and computers.
Incorrect and/or misleading messages often prevent adequate awareness of the importance of nutrition in sport. It is precisely for this reason that it is necessary to raise the level of knowledge of the general population and in those who practice sports on the appropriate lifestyle for the maintenance of health.
The possible use of supplements and dietary products for athletes can be justified only on some conditions:
- that the energy and nutrient inputs of the food ration are complete and balanced;
- for competitive or amateur activities which involve a particularly high energy expenditure and an excessive loss of minerals by sweating;
- making sure you choose, among the many options available, the one that actually meets your specific and individual needs (recovery phase, type of sport etc.);
- carefully observe the methods of use and any warnings, not exceeding the recommended doses and avoiding prolonged use.
Fonte: Ministero della Salute
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