Healthy food will support the development of players and provide them with good nutrition and eating habits when they grow into mature players. It will also tremendously contribute to the ability of the players to maximize their performance.

To achieve this, it is often the task of the parents, especially in the beginner stage but also still in the Intermediate Stage, to prepare healthy meals and snacks at home and to support the development of healthy eating habits. However, it is also the task of the coach, team staff and club personnel to create an environment where healthy eating habits are promoted and information concerning nutrition and hydration are shared with the players.

Healthy eating habits will make sure that the players get all the essential nutrients they need plus enough energy to be active and stay in good health. 

Each healthy meal should contain essential macro- and micronutrients. Macro- and micronutrients are proteins, fruits, vegetables, grains and dairy products. The macronutrients, micronutrients and minerals are needed in the human body for a very wide range of different functions such as blood clotting, cell protection, blood pressure regulation, muscle function, bone and teeth health, vision, skin health, energy supply, immune and nerve system operation, and brain activity.

Check out the materials on macro- and micronutrients as well as on well-balanced meals and the healthy eating models for additional information. It is best to avoid foods with added sugars as well as saturated and trans fats.

The nutrition requirements for players change while they grow up. The resource on calorie intake recommendations for players provides additional information on this matter.