Nutrition and Athletic Performance Flashcards

Grade 6 · Health · Flashcards

Review key nutrition terms and concepts that help athletes perform and recover their best.

Flashcards

Carbohydrates
The body's primary quick-energy fuel; found in grains, fruits, starchy vegetables, and dairy.
Protein
Nutrient essential for repairing and building muscle tissue after exercise; sources include meat, eggs, beans, and dairy.
Healthy Fats
Fats from sources like nuts, avocados, and olive oil that provide sustained energy and support joint health.
Glucose
A simple sugar that results from carbohydrate digestion and serves as the direct fuel for working muscles.
Electrolytes
Minerals (sodium, potassium, magnesium) lost in sweat that regulate fluid balance and muscle contractions.
Hydration
Maintaining adequate body fluid levels by drinking water before, during, and after physical activity.
Dehydration
A condition caused by insufficient fluid intake that impairs strength, speed, focus, and endurance.
Pre-game Meal
A balanced meal eaten 2–3 hours before exercise, ideally rich in carbohydrates for sustained energy.
Recovery Nutrition
Eating protein and carbohydrates within 30–60 minutes after exercise to repair muscles and restore energy.
Sports Drink
A beverage with water, electrolytes, and carbohydrates used to rehydrate during prolonged or high-intensity activity.
Vitamins and Minerals
Micronutrients found in fruits and vegetables that support immune function, bone health, and energy production.
Macronutrients
The three main categories of nutrients — carbohydrates, proteins, and fats — that provide energy and building blocks for the body.
Metabolism
The set of chemical reactions in the body that convert food into energy athletes use to move and perform.

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