Active kids need more calories than their sedentary, TV gazing counterparts. Carbohydrate is important in exercise because it provides fuel for the body, and is the fuel the body prefers. Complex carbohydrates also provide many important B vitamins that are needed to help put that energy to use. Carbs a few hours before practice will help supply energy needed during the event, and some carbohydrates eaten soon after will help replenish the muscles with fuel. The role of protein in sports diets has been blown way out of proportion.
Protein is necessary for tissue building and repair.
But eating excessive amounts will not build bigger or stronger muscles. Kids age 6 to 10 need about 0.5 grams of protein per pound of body weight. On a daily basis that comes to about 24 to 28 grams of protein. Drinking two to three glasses of milk, a serving of meat, fish or poultry, and a variety of whole grains and some vegetables will more than meet daily protein needs. Spread out protein intake over the course of the day.