Milk Most children need 3-4 servings of dairy foods daily. Dairy products supply needed protein, carbohydrate and calcium which help children grow and perform well. Some children refuse to drink milk and others cannot tolerate it, but the same nutrients can be found in low-fat dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, frozen yogurt, and even ice cream. After the basic nutrient needs are met, there is still room in a child's diet for snack foods. Snack foods are appealing to a child and can provide something beside empty calories.
Snacks can often provide the essential calories, carbohydrates, and other needed nutrients.
Most children eat more protein than they actually need, so protein supplements are not necessary and may even be unhealthy. It is important to remember that eating healthy on game day will not undo the effects of an unhealthy diet the rest of the week. If you have questions about your child's particular nutritional needs, you may contact the Vanderbilt Sports Medicine Center to set up an appointment with the Registered Dietician. Feeding your child athlete correctly can greatly enhance their performance. It takes planning and preparation to have the foods and beverage available at home and at the sidelines.