Nutrition in sport: an opportunity to balance performance, sustainability and Preventive Medicine

This article explores the complex interaction between sport, nutrition and sustainable foods, emphasizing how a diet based on principles of sustainability can support athletic performance, promote rapid post-training recovery and contribute to injury prevention. In addition, the long-term impact of these nutritional choices on athletes' health and the environment is analysed, offering an integrated view that connects the well-being of the individuals with the global health. Through a critical review of existing scientific literature, as well as through the examination of case studies and experimental research, this work aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the potential benefits of a sustainable diet for athletes. In particular, it highlights how specific dietary choices can, on one hand, optimize physical performance and, on the other hand, contribute to a more ethical and responsible lifestyle, in line with the growing demand for global sustainability. We also focused on how dentists, particularly those specialized in sport, also play a fundamental role in early diagnosis and in educating and guiding the most correct choices.