Nutrition Guide for Youth basketballers. Fuel Train Dominate
This CPD activity involved the research, development, and publication of a comprehensive, evidence-based sports nutrition guide specifically designed for adolescent football players aged 13–18 years. Self-Directed Professional Development – Development and Publication of Evidence-Based Educational Resource
The resource integrates current sports nutrition science, Australian dietary guidelines, and performance-focused clinical practice to support:
Athletic performance
Recovery optimisation
Hydration strategies
Injury prevention
Micronutrient sufficiency
Safe supplementation practices
Long-term athlete development
The guide translates complex physiological and biochemical principles into practical, age-appropriate strategies suitable for adolescent athletes balancing school, training, and competition demands.
Key Clinical Topics Covered
1. Carbohydrate Periodisation & Glycogen Replenishment
6–10 g/kg carbohydrate recommendations based on training intensity
Post-exercise glycogen synthesis protocols (1.2 g/kg within 4-hour window)
Simple vs complex carbohydrate timing strategies
2. Protein Requirements for Adolescent Athletes
1.2–1.8 g/kg/day protein recommendations
15–25 g high-quality protein within 30–60 minutes post-exercise
20 g protein recovery model and leucine-triggered muscle protein synthesis
3. Iron Physiology & Deficiency Prevention
RDI differences for male and female adolescents
Increased risk in menstruating athletes
Dietary iron strategies and absorption enhancement
Education regarding screening prior to supplementation
4. Hydration Science
5–7 mL/kg pre-exercise protocol
200–300 mL every 15–20 minutes during play
Sweat rate calculation formula
150% fluid replacement model
5. Dopamine & Performance Nutrition
Role of iron, B6, folate, vitamin C and tyrosine in neurotransmitter production
Link between micronutrient sufficiency and motivation, focus, and fatigue
6. Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition & Injury Prevention
Polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, fibre and gut health
Reduction of ultra-processed foods
Recovery nutrition for repeated competition demands
7. Tournament & Multi-Game Recovery Planning
Rapid refuelling strategies
Carbohydrate + protein recovery packs
Electrolyte balance for heat exposure
8. Supplement Safety & Sports Integrity
Food-first model
Short-term deficiency-based supplementation only
Compliance with Sports Integrity Australia anti-doping standards
Evidence Base
The resource incorporates evidence from:
Australian Institute of Sport (AIS)
Sports Dietitians Australia (SDA)
National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ)
Peer-reviewed journals including Nutrients, Sports Medicine, and Journal of Sports Sciences
Clinical Sports Nutrition (Burke & Deakin)