The adolescent athlete. Part III: The role of nutrition and hydration

Physically active adolescents have energy requirements far beyond those who are sedentary. Unfortunately, interest in nutrition is rare unless connected to improved performance. The nurse practitioner has the opportunity to instill enthusiasm in the teenager about adequate nutrition and to educate athletes and families on the effects of diet on growth and sports performance. Alternative nutritional practices are investigated, as are potential dangerous starvation and dehydration risks. This article is the third of a three-part series addressing the nurse practitioner's role in health maintenance of the adolescent athlete.