Tag: Youth sports nutrition

According to a study published in the *Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition*, the prevalence of sports supplement intake among young athletes is high, yet their knowledge regarding proper and safe use is often lacking. This highlights a crucial need for clarity on appropriate ages and conditions for starting essential amino acid (EAA) supplements.

According to the National Institutes of Health, young male athletes aged 12-14 may require over 2,900 calories per day, while their female counterparts may need more than 2,600 calories, and intensive sports like gymnastics significantly increase this demand. Proper fueling is critical for growth, development, and optimal performance in these high-energy sports.

Youth athletes aged 13-18 typically require 1.2g to 2.0g of protein per kilogram of body weight each day, a notably higher demand than their less active peers. This guide will detail exactly how much protein should a 13 year old footballer eat to support rapid growth, maximize energy levels, and enhance their overall performance on the pitch.

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, male teen athletes may need up to 4,000 calories per day, while female teen athletes may need up to 3,000 calories per day, depending on individual factors. For a 14-year-old swimmer, these figures are just a starting point for determining the significantly higher caloric requirements necessary to fuel intense training and rapid growth.