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Posted by u/spoonie_lifter·

How can I best support college athletes with chronic illnesses through nutrition?

TL;DR: Looking for advice on nutrition strategies for college athletes with chronic illnesses.

Hi, I'm a chronic illness advocate and have been lifting for 2 years. I'm curious about the role of a registered dietitian or sports nutritionist when working with college teams, especially for athletes dealing with ongoing health issues. What specific strategies or protocols should I consider when supporting these athletes? Any insights on common challenges they face or effective nutrition plans would be super helpful!

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u/proteinpancakes22·

100! Also, breakfast is so important! I always start my day with high-protein pancakes. They're easy to make and give me energy for my workouts. It's a small change, but those morning meals can really set the tone for the day. Plus, who doesn't love pancakes?

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u/recipequeen44·

Meal prepping can be a fun way to support these athletes! I love finding easy, nutritious recipes that fit within their dietary needs. For example, making energy balls with oats, nut butter, and protein powder can be a game-changer for quick snacks on the go. Keep it tasty and easy!

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u/highprotein_paul·

I've seen firsthand how chronic illnesses can affect performance. Working with an RD can help these athletes find the right balance of macros, which is essential. Often, they might need to adjust their intake based on their symptoms, so flexibility is crucial. Educating them about nutrient timing around workouts can also make a big difference

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u/saltyngl·

Ngl, getting athletes to listen can be a struggle, especially when they're dealing with a lot. I remember my buddy who had Crohn's, and he thought he could just power through without changing his diet. It took a while for him to realize he had to make adjustments to keep training. Just gotta keep it real with them.

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u/runningfromcardio·

Facts! Making meals fun can help too. I found that adding flavor with spices or making smoothies can keep things exciting. And if they're like me and don't want to spend hours cooking, simple meals like stir-fries can be a lifesaver. Gotta keep it simple yet satisfying.

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u/spoonie_lifter·

It's great that you're looking to support college athletes with chronic illnesses. I think collaboration with a registered dietitian can be super beneficial. They can help create individualized nutrition plans that accommodate the athlete's specific health needs, which is key for managing energy levels and recovery.

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u/powerlifting_panda·

You should definitely consider the role of micronutrients as well. Many athletes overlook their vitamin and mineral intake, which can be crucial for recovery and overall health. An RD can help identify any deficiencies and suggest foods or supplements to address those gaps. This is super important, especially for athletes with chronic conditions.

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u/depressedlifter·

This is gonna sound harsh, but not all athletes even take their nutrition seriously. I've been there, trying to lift while feeling like trash. You can have the best meal plan, but if they don't stick to it, it's pointless. Sometimes they just need someone to hold them accountable.

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