SPOR07043 2022 Nutrition and Performance

Describe the dynamics of carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism and hydration during physical activity.

Describe the concept of nutrition periodisation and conduct basic dietary analysis.

Recognise risk factors associated with disordered eating.

Review the efficacy and risks associated with nutritional strategies employed by athletes.

Active learning will be encouraged as students engage with peers in planning a group presentation. Reading, research and referencing skills will be required to complete this piece of work. Debate and discussion will be encouraged on topics related to nutritional supplements and eating disorders. A limited number of workshops will be used to engage students in practical dietary analysis. Lectures will deliver theoretical knowledge on topics pertinent to nutrition for athletic performance. Moodle will act as a repository to support student with diverse learning needs and to run online assessments.

• Individual Dietary Analysis Project
• Group Presentation
• An end of semester online multiple choice quiz (MCQ) will be used to test theoretical knowledge across a broad range of topics.

• If a candidate fails to participate in the group presentation, he or she will be required to make an individual presentation on an alternative date.
• The individual project may be re-submitted in the autumn.
• Candidates may re-sit the MCQ in the autumn.

1.0 DYNAMICS OF CARBOHYDRATE, FAT & PROTEIN METABOLISM & HYDRATION DURING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

• Identify carbohydrate (CHO) as an energy source, fuel for CNS & protein sparer.

• Describe the role of fats & types of fats.

• Describe the role of proteins and types of proteins.

• Identify the role of antioxidants in the body.

• Recognise the contribution of CHO during intense, moderate and prolonged exercise.

• Recognise the contribution of lipids during exercise & effects of training on fat use.

• Identify the functions of cholesterol and the association with coronary heart disease.

• Recognise the contribution of proteins during exercise and the Alanine-Glucose Cycle.

• Identify recommendations for fluid replacement during exercise & effects of dehydration on performance.

• Identify the predisposing factors to hyperkalemia and hyponatremia.

2.0 NUTRITION PERIODISATION & DIETARY ANALYSIS

• Practically analyse food logs and calculate caloric intake.

• Understand how to read food labels.

• Identify the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for different food groups.

• Compare nutrient and energy intakes of the physically active with sedentary counterparts.

3.0 DISORDERED EATING 

• Describe disordered eating behaviours pertaining to lean sports.

• Identify the risks associated with inadequate fat intake for males and females

• Describe the Female Athlete Triad & REDs

• Identify the limits of fad diets to weight management.

4.0 NUTRITIONAL STRATEGIES FOR ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE

• Identify the research based efficacy of nutritional supplements.

• Identify the World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) position on supplementation.

• Examine the benefits versus risks of supplementation.

• Describe the risks versus benefits of strategies such as carbohydrate loading, soda loading, caffeine and creatine ingestion.