Soccer Nutrition For Kids – An Ultimate Guide

Ultimate Guide to Quality Soccer Nutrition

Eat & Drink Your Way to Great games and practices!

We all recognize the transformative power of regular exercise for our children. It not only strengthens their bodies but also fortifies their minds. Yet, as pivotal as physical activity is, understanding and implementing a comprehensive nutrition and diet is of equal, if not greater, importance.

Ensuring the right nutrition for soccer players goes beyond just the basics of eating healthily. It’s about fueling their young bodies with the precise nutrients they need to perform at their peak. By diligently managing your child’s diet, fluid intake, and being aware of the specific nutritional requirements for soccer players, you’re setting them up for success. It’s not just about energy for the next game or practice; it’s about building lifelong habits that promote health and well-being.

Dive into our youth soccer nutrition plan to equip your child with the nutritional knowledge and habits they need to shine on the soccer field and in life.

But how can we do this?

1. When To Eat and Drink Before

   • Try timing meals 2-3 hours before a practice or a game.

   • If kick off is early in the morning try a light snack 1 hour before

2. What To Eat Before 

   • Carbs:

     • Grains,

     • Oats, 

     • Quinoa,

     • Bananas

   • Proteins: 

     • Poultry (chicken/Turkey)

     • Yoghurts

     • Peanut Butter

   • Low in fat:

     • Baked Potato

     • Salad

     • Egg Whtes 

3. When To Eat After

   • Try to eat within the first 30 minutes to 2 hours of finishing practicing

4. What To Eat After

   • When refueling after a game look towards proteins, carbohydrates & tones of water.

   • Examples include:

     • Wraps

     • Sandwiches

     • Bagels 

5. What To Drink

   • For most kids, drinking water before, during, and after playing sports will keep them hydrated. 

      

   • Skip the energy drinks

     • Many of the ingredients haven’t been studied in children and could be harmful – Amy W. Anzilotti, MD

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