When planning care for an adolescent athlete, what dietary adjustment is necessary?

For an adolescent athlete, increasing carbohydrate intake to 55% to 60% of total caloric intake is essential for optimal performance and recovery. Carbohydrates serve as the primary source of energy for high-intensity activities, which is pivotal in sports. This macronutrient is critical not only for fueling muscles during exercise but also for replenishing glycogen stores after workouts.

Adolescents have unique nutritional needs due to their growth and development, combined with the energy demands of their athletic activities. Sufficient carbohydrate intake can help support energy levels, enhance endurance, and improve recovery times, which are particularly important for young athletes who are still in the midst of physical and mental development.

Focusing on adequate carbohydrates will help ensure that they maintain proper nutrition to support their training regimens and overall health. Each of the other dietary adjustments listed would not meet the specific energy and recovery needs that adolescent athletes require, emphasizing the necessity of prioritizing carbohydrates for this demographic.