DRINK BEFORE THIRST SETS IN

High sweat losses should be replaced as soon as possible. It is therefore very important to drink water or unsweetened juices or teas regularly for several hours after exercise.

This rehydrates more effectively than drinking a lot in a short time.

Active young people who have little interest in needs-based eating and drinking behavior can be motivated to improve their eating habits with the aim of improved performance.

Since correct training and optimal nutrition are the two most important determining factors for a successful sporting career, the exact balance of the amount of energy is an important prerequisite for staying healthy and performing in sport. However, the sport-related increase in energy consumption is often overestimated both by parents and young people themselves.

FOOD OFFER

The abundant food offer does not make it very easy for many parents to choose food products for their kids. Children are still growing and need a certain minimum amount of energy and nutrients.

The Research Institute for Child Nutrition in Dortmund recommends that you have plenty of access to plant-based foods and beverages, include moderate amounts of animal-based foods in your menu, and use foods that are high in fat and sugar sparingly. A warm meal a day, in which fresh potatoes, brown rice or whole wheat pasta and vegetables (cooked, as raw food or salad) predominate, should be the minimum. Combine the meal with a little meat two to three times a week, once a week with fish. Vegetarian meals made from legumes or cereals, such as stews, casseroles or patties, are also welcome.

Offer children a drink with every meal: energy-free or low-energy drinks such as tap water, sparkling water, unsweetened herbal or fruit teas or highly diluted juices.

The other two main meals can be cold and often consist of bread or muesli combined with low-fat milk and milk products, sausage, fruit or raw food. Two snacks such as bread, a milk product or fruit round off the daily menu. A plate of bite-sized fruit is very inviting to eat it.

Occasionally pastries, cake or sweets as a snack are also okay. Because: forbidden things attract children (and adults) all the more. They sneak them secretly and completely excessively. Sweets eaten in moderation have their place in a balanced diet.