Where should I get my nutrition advice?
Being a dietitian is interesting and often very amusing. I frequently encounter questions like, "What's the best diet?" "How can I achieve weight loss or gain?" or "How can I enhance my performance?" Although these questions may appear straightforward, they are deceptively intricate due to the complexities inherent in the human body, human performance, and our attitudes and beliefs surrounding food.
When people approach me, seeking advice or wanting to discuss their thoughts, I often find myself unsure about their underlying intentions. From my experience, it's not uncommon for individuals to jump in with the latest diet advice they've encountered, be it from social media, friends, or even other healthcare professionals, before I can even finish my response. This flood of information underscores the abundance of dietary advice available, emphasizing the need to tread cautiously through this vast landscape. So, what should an athlete look for when sifting through the abundance of diet information available?
When seeking sports nutrition information, it's essential to rely on credible and evidence-based sources. Here are some reliable sources where you can obtain accurate sports nutrition information:
Registered Dietitians (RDs): Consult with a registered dietitian who specializes in sports nutrition. RDs have extensive education and training in nutrition and can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and goals.
Certified Sports Specialist Dietitian (CSSD): Go one step further and consult with a registered dietitian who is a Certified Sports Specialist Dietitian. CSSDs have more extensive experience and training in sports nutrition.
Sports Medicine Professionals: Seek advice from sports medicine professionals such as sports physicians, sports scientists, or athletic trainers who have expertise in nutrition. They can offer valuable insights and recommendations based on their experience working with athletes.
Professional Organizations: Look to professional organizations dedicated to sports nutrition, such as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), the Sports, Cardiovascular, and Wellness Nutrition (SCAN) Dietetic Practice Group and the Collegiate and Professional Sports Dietitians Association (CPSDA). These organizations provide reliable information and resources backed by scientific research.
Research Journals and Publications: Stay updated with the latest research in sports nutrition by reading scientific journals such as the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (JISSN), the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, and the Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise (MSSE) journal. These publications provide evidence-based findings from studies conducted by experts in the field.
Government Health Organizations: Government health organizations like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offer valuable resources and guidelines on nutrition and dietary recommendations. Websites such as Health.gov and ChooseMyPlate.gov provide evidence-based information for healthy eating, including recommendations for athletes.
Reliable Websites: Look for reputable websites that provide evidence-based information, such as those associated with academic institutions, professional sports organizations, or renowned sports nutrition experts.
Peer-reviewed Studies and Reviews: Explore peer-reviewed scientific studies and reviews published in reputable journals. This can provide you with an in-depth understanding of specific topics within sports nutrition.
Remember to critically evaluate the sources you encounter, ensuring that the information is based on scientific evidence and supported by experts in the field. Be wary of websites or individuals promoting fad diets, quick fixes, or products with exaggerated claims
