Nutrition tips to reduce injury for track and field athletes

A proper diet can reduce the risk of injury for track stars

A proper diet can reduce the risk of injury for track stars

Track and field athletes suffer a high rate of injuries. It’s said that one in twelve people registered for International Athletics Championships will be hurt. It begs the question, can we reduce the risk of injury and improve recovery with proper nutrition?

The answer is yes. Here are some research-based tips to protect yourself from injury using diet.

  • Eating additional protein probably does not prevent or treat injuries as long as you were already taking in enough protein

  • If you cut back your training after an injury, be sure to decrease your calorie intake - otherwise, you might gain unintended weight

  • High-dose omega-3 fats (fish oil) might be beneficial

  • Vitamin D may be helpful for muscle repair. Most athletes are vitamin D deficient, so a supplement of vitamin D would be helpful

  • Creatine may reduce muscle loss when you’re recovering and may boost muscle gain once you resume training

  • Collagen might decrease knee pain and boost your cartilage

Now, go out there and train -but eat a healthy diet!

Read more about nutrition in the best-selling book Why Doctors Skip Breakfast: Wellness Tips to Reverse Aging, Treat Depression, and Get a Good Night’s Sleep



Gregory Charlop

Gregory Charlop, MD is the author of Why Doctors Skip Breakfast. His telemedicine wellness clinic for athletes and executives is available throughout California. 

https://www.gregorycharlopmd.com
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