Carbohydrates

 "Ready, Set, Go: Healthy Eating for Active Teens." Kraftcanada.com. Web. Dec.-Jan. 2010. <http://www.kraftcanada.com/en/healthy-living-ideas/NutritionUpdate/clientresources/ReadySet.aspx>.

Carbohydrates are the main sources of fuel for an active body. It is recommended that 60-65% of your calories should be from carbohydrates. Also, 6-11 portions of your diet should include different types of food that are high with carbs. Carbohydrates should be a big part of an athlete's daily diet.

            Teen athletes need an excessive amount of energy and fuel. The fuel that is stored is used for energy for the brain and muscle. Active teens should eat a high carbohydrate meal 3-4 hours before vigorous activity. The general types of carbohydrates are fruits, vegetables, and grains. Whole grain is highly recommended to provide energy and fiber. Brown rice, oatmeal, whole grain pasta, and whole-wheat bread are some types of whole grain foods. Although carbohydrates are a big part of a active teens diet, not all carbohydrates are recommended. Choices like types of candy bars and soda are not favored in the healthy diet. Although these candy and soda does give you energy, it does not contain the nutrients needed. These unhealthy types of carbohydrates gives you bursts of energy and then "crashes" your body.

            Some people may think that loading up on carbs is a great source of fuels for active teens. This is untrue. Although carbohydrates are a big part of an athlete's diet, loading up on one nutrient is not the healthiest choice for teens. Your body can only hold a certain amount of carbohydrates. The extra fuel turns into fat, which is not always the favored case for an athlete.

            Teens need fuel and energy to grow, and teen athletes need more fuel and energy to grown and to last through vigorous activities. Carbohydrates are a vital part of a athlete's diet. Although, not all are recommended.

- "Carbohydrates." Full Issue. 07 Dec. 2010. Web. 07 Dec. 2010. <http://www.fullissue.com/index.php/carbohydrates.html>.

- "Healthy Eating For A Teenage Athlete | LIVESTRONG.COM." LIVESTRONG.COM  Health, Fitness, Lifestyle | LIVESTRONG.COM. Web. 07 Dec. 2010. <http://www.livestrong.com/article/74741-eating-teenage-athlete/>.