Nutrition for young athletes in early to middle childhood: A narrative review

In addition to facilitating the best possible growth and development, nutrition has a significant role in the athletic performance of young athletes in the early to middle childhood years. Adequate physical activity is essential for preventing obesity and promoting general health and well-being at a developmental age. Young athletes must understand what, when, and how to eat and drink before, during, and after an exercise in order to perform at their best. In order to prevent both nutrient deficiencies and excessive or inadequate supplement intake, physicians should provide children and their families with appropriate advice. This is because nutritional requirements vary depending on the intensity, frequency, and type of physical activity or sport being played. For young, active athletes, the right proportions of macro- and micronutrients in the diet, together with proper hydration, are essential to supply energy for growth, development, and overall athletic performance.  Research on improving the nutrition, timing of nutrients, hydration, and dietary supplementation of young athletes in their early to middle childhood is still ongoing, and there aren't many studies on dietary needs and consumption.