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Nutrition & the Olympic Games

Every athlete wishes to get the best food to help them specifically reach their goals at the Olympic Games. What is considered the best diet for an athlete has changed over time. What a modern day elite athlete eats prior to competing differs greatly from earlier Olympic's and is particularly different to what they would have eaten in ancient times when the Ancient Games were first held in Greece.



horlicks hydration station during the marathon event at the 1928 Olympic Games Horlicks hydration station during the marathon event at the 1928 Olympic Games (image from the official report of the 1928 Olympic Games)

Related Articles

Below is an article related to nutrition at all Olympic Games. There is also a list of research relating to the Nutrition Services at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

This article provides insight into the evolution of sports nutrition and the dietary strategies of athletes. In early Olympic Games (1932 to 1968) menus favored protein as the main fuel for exercise. Despite beneficial evidence from the 1960s, an emphasis on carbohydrate-rich foods was not noted until the 1970s. Athlete food preferences and catering evolved rapidly from 1970, with influences from expert nutritional advice and sponsorship.



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Sports Nutrition Extra

Athlete nutrition isn't just about weight loss. It is important to fuel the body optimally before, during and after exercise, as well as to stay hydrated. Supplements may also be required.

Weight Loss Extra

There are no simple answers. You should keep a healthy weight, consider one of these diets, though exercise is also important.

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