Weight Management Strategies for Recreational Athletes: What Do We Tell Them?

Abstract

The 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans provide clear recommendations for health care professionals to share with their patients and clients. The guidelines clearly lay out what the general public needs to do to improve their fitness level and manage their weight. The physical activity guidelines need to be reviewed in conjunction with appropriate dietary advice found in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Patients and clients who increase their physical activity to light or moderately active, the recreational athlete, can meet their nutrition needs by consuming a well-balanced, varied diet of nutrient-dense foods. Sports drinks and bars, which are heavily marketed to all levels of athletes and sedentary people, are not necessary for the recreational athlete in most situations and may negatively affect body weight.