Page 46 - FoodFocusThailand No.186 September 2021

STRATEGIC R&D
STRATEGIC R&D

Vitamins & Minerals

Essential Sports Nutrition

ROLE OF DIET & NUTRITION IN SPORT function, and immune system function.
PERFORMANCE Vitamin E helps in protecting the cell membranes by directly
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Sports nutrition is the key foundation for an athlete’s success. It is a reacting with the free radicals, thus preventing them from reacting
well-measured nutrition plan that permits active adults and athletes to with the fatty acids in the cell membrane.
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perform at their finest. Proper nutrition before, during, and after exercise Vitamin K is needed in athletes to fasten the blood clotting
marks the difference between winning and losing, where talent and process. When laceration or abrasion occurs, a series of activation
training are relatively equal. One thing to consider is the level and type reactions involving clotting factors is required to stop bleeding.
of nutrient intake differs by the athlete’s body type and their sport. 2. B-Vitamins are essential for the body to function properly.
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The growing awareness of the vital role of nutrition in performance These organic compounds are essential for regulating metabolic
enhancement has led to the increasing demand for energy bars, nutrition processes, energy production, neurological functioning, and protection
bars & ready-to-drink products, and dietary supplements. These products of cells.
provide various health benefits such as performance enhancement, 3. Magnesium is a component of bones and teeth. Magnesium
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more power, improved recovery, less muscle cramps or pain, and contributes to electrolyte balance. It is also involved in enzyme
reduction of body fat and increased muscle mass. functions, including DNA and protein synthesis.
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4. Molybdenum acts as a co-factor for enzyme synthesis in the
MAJOR NUTRIENTS REQUIRED BY THE ATHLETES body.
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There are numerous nutritional studies to define the most suitable 5. Manganese contributes to the function of enzymes in the body,
nutrients to support energy metabolism, fluid balance, and muscle normal formation of connective tissue, and the protection of cells from
function. oxidative stress.
Macronutrients provide calories as required by the body, whereas 6. Zinc is a critical nutrient for exercise recovery due to its role
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micronutrients help in maintaining balance in the human body. The in protein synthesis and tissue repair. Zinc also increases the affinity
purpose of macronutrients is to promote healthy cellular growth, of hemoglobin for oxygen by interacting with insulin.
metabolism and to maintain bodily functions. Carbohydrates, proteins, 7. Chromium contributes to glucose-uptake function of insulin
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and fats are the macronutrients required by the body. and stimulates the metabolism of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.
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Micronutrients are chemical compounds comprised of organic 8. Fluorine helps in strengthening the resistance of interosseous
essential organic vitamins and inorganic minerals. The purpose of ligaments and prevents tendonitis in athletes.
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micronutrients is energy production, hemoglobin synthesis, bone, and 9. Selenium along with vitamin E helps in protecting the cells
immune health. Though required in small quantities, micronutrients are against free radical damage.
essential for maintaining proper physical balance. To illustrate;
1. Fat-soluble vitamins
Vitamin A enhances performance and prevents exercise-related
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muscle damage.
Vitamin D contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, muscle More Information Service Info C005
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