Module7: Nutrition: Fitness and Sports and Eating Disorders

Carbohydrates

The primary fuel source for high-intensity exercise.

Protein

Aids in muscle repair and recovery after exercise.

Carbohydrate loading

A strategy to increase glycogen stores before endurance events to improve performance.

Recommended daily fluid intake for athletes

About 3-5 liters of fluid, depending on activity level, body size, and climate conditions.

Electrolytes

Help maintain fluid balance and prevent dehydration and muscle cramps.

Anaerobic metabolism

The process the body uses to produce energy during short bursts of intense exercise, which does not require oxygen and produces ATP quickly but leads to lactate build-up.

Energy systems used during exercise

The phosphagen system, glycolysis (anaerobic), and oxidative system (aerobic).

Importance of a balanced diet for athletes

Ensures adequate energy and nutrient intake to support performance, recovery, and overall health.

Recommended protein intake for strength athletes

1.2-2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.

Hydration importance for athletes

Supports optimal performance, prevents dehydration, and helps regulate body temperature.

Anorexia nervosa

An eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, severe restriction of food intake, and an abnormally low body weight.

Main physical complications associated with anorexia nervosa

Malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, osteoporosis, organ damage, and heart failure.

Bulimia nervosa

An eating disorder involving episodes of binge eating followed by inappropriate compensatory behaviors such as vomiting or excessive exercise.

Binge eating disorder (BED)

Involves frequent episodes of binge eating without compensatory behaviors like purging or excessive exercise.

Orthorexia

An obsession with eating foods that one considers healthy, to the exclusion of other food groups, leading to unhealthy restrictions.

Role of nutrition therapy in treating eating disorders

Helps restore normal eating patterns, address nutrient deficiencies, and support mental and physical health recovery.

Family support in eating disorder recovery

Can provide encouragement, understanding, and a structured environment to promote recovery and healing.

Psychological factors contributing to eating disorders

Low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and societal pressures related to body image.

Body dysmorphic disorder

A mental health condition where an individual is preoccupied with perceived flaws or defects in their physical appearance, which may contribute to eating disorders.

Early intervention in eating disorders

Can prevent the disorder from worsening, reduce the risk of long-term physical and mental health complications, and improve recovery outcomes.