This principle applies whether you’re a student-athlete, a senior competitor, or just someone who loves pushing their physical limits. The choices you make about nutrition play a crucial role in optimizing your performance and recovery.
In a world dominated by diet trends and social media narratives, athletes can easily get swept up in fad diets and trends. But as sports dietitian and professional runner Maddie Alm emphasizes, there is no such thing as the perfect plate. In fact, the obsession with only consuming “perfect” foods can often do more harm than good.
Here’s what you need to know to keep your energy up, your body strong, and your mind sharp.
Think of your meals as a way to build vibrant plates filled with:
It doesn't have to be fancy. Burgers, cereal, pizza? Totally fine! Maddie Alm’s approach to nutrition includes practical, satisfying options like pancakes with bacon and eggs, bagels with cream cheese, burgers and fries, and pizza. These choices aren’t just “allowed”, they can be optimal for meeting an athlete’s energy needs.