Nutrition and the Female Athlete

Designed to address the nutritional needs of women over the age of 18 who partake in sports on a regular basis, Nutrition and the Female Athlete: From Research to Practice highlights nutritional concerns specific to active women. It discusses the link between nutrition and athletic performance and translates research into practical applications for health, fitness, and nutrition professionals. The book addresses gender differences in substrate utilization and the implications for how these differences might translate into different macronutrient requirements for female athletes. It covers vitamins and minerals that are often lacking in the diets of female athletes and presents special considerations for individuals with disordered eating, menstrual dysfunction, and low bone-mineral density.

Katherine Beals is an Associate Professor (Clinical) and Nutrition Clinic Director at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City.

Substrate Utilization in Female Athletes: Implications for Fuel Selection and Macronutrient Requirements. Carbohydrates Requirements for the Female Athlete. Protein Requirements for the Female Athlete. Fluid and Electrolyte Requirements for Female Athletes. Trace Minerals of Concern for Female Athletes: Iron and Zinc. Nutrients Needed for Optimal Bone Health in the Female Athlete. B Vitamins and the Female Athlete. The Female Athlete Triad: Introduction-Energy Availability, Menstrual Function, and Bone Health. Energy Availability, Health, and Performance in the Female Athlete. Menstrual Function and Dysfunction in the Female Athlete. Recommendations for Optimizing Bone Strength and Reducing Fracture Risk in Female Athletes.