Infuse Infuse 9 September 2019 | Page 22

Images courtesy of @jess_spendlove_dietitian 3. Use Evidence-Based Targeted Strategies Integrating supplements in addition to baseline dietary strategies can provide an added level of protection or minimize the duration at onset. The use of certain probiotics has been shown to reduce the incidence of URTIs by about 50%. And the early commencement of zinc (within 24 hours) of URTIs onset, can minimize the duration of symptoms. 4. Shift the Paradigm – focus on muscle maintenance, rather than fat loss LEARN MORE: http://www.jessicaspendlove.com @jess_spendlove_dietitian Learn more with Jessica at our upcoming Online Symposium in September. Register today at dietitianconnection.com © Dietitian Connection When injured, athletes can become focused on not gaining fat, which can result in over restricting total energy intake. Educating athletes on the importance of maintaining lean mass and tailoring dietary advice to facilitate this is essential. Dietary focus areas during this time should include energy balance and protein intake – type, timing and distribution. 5. Be Strategic with Supplements While the overall quality and quantity of nutritional intake is paramount during an injury, there are a number of nutritional supplements shown to be helpful in rehabilitation. Dependent on the type and extent of the injury, supplements which may be appropriate include creatine, omega-3 fatty acids and collagen / gelatin. 22 Infuse | September 2019