Too much salt, protein, phosphorous, caffeine and alcohol have a negative effect on the amount of calcium that the body is able to absorb 4 . One notable source of phosphorous is soft drinks. Phosphorous and calcium compete with one another for absorption in the body. Not only is this a problem, but soft drinks in most cases replace milk as a beverage throughout the day, which can even further create an overall calcium deficiency. Stress fractures can easily shorten the life span of an athlete's career.
Many different factors go into causing stress fractures.
Diet can play an important role in helping to lower the potential for stress fractures. With a balanced diet that contains plenty of calories and calcium, athletes can help decrease their risk for stress fractures and increase their promise for athletic success. The Health Care Referral Network consists of Sports Psychologists, Nutritionists, Athletic Trainers, and Primary Care Physicians. We'll have an expert in the referral network answer your question and print the answer in USA Gymnastics magazine. References Barrow, G.W., Saha, S. Menstrual irregularity and stress fractures in collegiate female distance runners.