About Sports Nutritionists

Sports nutritionists or dietitians apply the science of nutrition, biochemistry and physiology to help athletes achieve peak performance and recover from sports injuries. They work with weekend athletes as well as school, college or professional teams. Sports nutritionists or dietitians may be certified by professional organizations based on successful completion of academic and work requirements. Individual assessment, nutritional analysis, education and dietary planning are the major focus of sports nutritionists' work.

Significance

• If you want to compete, you have to eat. Food provides the energy our bodies need for exercise, and research summarized by the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports concludes that people who exercise more than one hour a day need to make sure they get adequate amounts of the right kind of food and liquids to fuel their working bodies. Sports nutritionists work with athletes to make sure they get the right mix of protein, carbohydrates, fluids and other nutrients to promote optimal performance. The result can be the difference between finishing strong and hitting the wall.

Function

• Sports nutritionists work with individual athletes and teams along with other medical professionals, schools and colleges. They assess the athlete's body composition, sports requirements and medical history and conduct a nutritional/lifestyle analysis. The nutritionist or dietitian develops a dietary program to help the athlete get the proper nutrients to perform and recover from the physical stress of intense exercise. The sports nutritionist may refer the athlete to other professionals such as physical therapists or physicians.

Types

• Although anyone can call herself a nutritionist, the term for a sports nutrition professional credentialed by the American Dietetics Association is sports dietitian. A bachelor's degree in nutrition is required, and a master's degree in nutrition or exercise physiology is preferred. State licensure may be required. Health and fitness professionals may take exams to become Certified Sports Nutritionists from the International Society of Sports Nutrition. The National Association of Sports Nutrition is another organization that credentials dietitians, trainers and medical professionals who work with athletes.

Potential

• Job opportunities for nutritionists with certification and specialized training are good, according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics. The continuing popularity of sports and fitness will provide more growth in athletic environments than in other medical settings.

Misconceptions

• One quarter to half of all Americans use nutritional supplements daily, creating a multi-billion dollar industry. These supplements aren't regulated by the government, and any claims to enhance athletic performance should be taken with a grain of salt. Certified sports nutritionists or dietitians may suggest supplements from a reputable company to address specific nutrition needs, but they should be used sparingly. Dietary plans and nutrition counseling come first.