High School Athlete Nutrition

Can you perform at your best as a plant-based athlete? Absolutely, but it takes the right plan. In this episode of the High School Athlete Nutrition Podcast, host and sports dietitian Stephanie shares exactly how to stay energized, build muscle, and recover faster without relying on meat. She explains the most common mistakes plant-based athletes make, from not eating enough to missing key nutrients like protein, iron, vitamin B12, and vitamin D. You’ll learn easy swaps, smart food pairings, and quick snack ideas to keep your fuel levels high. Whether you’re fully vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian, or just adding more plants to your plate, these strategies will help you stay strong and ready for game day.   Resources & Links Join the Academy. Your online sports nutrition library for athletes and their parents Free Game Day Nutrition Checklis   Join my community! Follow me on Instagram @highschool.athlete.nutritionGot a question or topic idea? Message me here   Episode highlights: (1:37) What “plant-based” really means(2:33) The biggest mistake athletes make when going plant-based(2:47) Protein needs and best sources(4:43) Why iron matters and how to boost absorption(6:33) The role of vitamin B12 and D(8:18) Power snack ideas for lasting energy(9:37) Top mistakes to avoid(11:14) The bottom line for fueling on plants

Headed to summer sports camp? Don’t let poor nutrition or dehydration hold you back. Stephanie shares exactly what to eat and drink before, during, and after camp to keep your energy up and your performance sharp. From fast, carb-packed breakfasts to smart hydration strategies and recovery snacks, you’ll learn how to fuel like a pro, without overthinking it. Whether you're heading to a college ID camp, club event, or grueling preseason, this episode is your go-to guide for peak performance.   Resources & Links Join the Academy. Your online sports nutrition library for athletes and their parents Free Game Day Nutrition Checklist   Join my community! Follow me on Instagram @highschool.athlete.nutritionGot a question or topic idea? Message me here   Episode highlights:  (1:12) Fueling strategy for summer camps (2:27) Why skipping meals hurts performance (2:50) Quick and powerful breakfast ideas (4:40) Your snack strategy for long days (6:20) Building a powerhouse lunch (8:25) Staying hydrated throughout the day (9:54) How much to drink and when (10:46) What to eat and drink after camp (12:34) Spot-check: Are you hydrated enough? (13:46) Why post-camp snacks matter (14:46) Final tips: prep, listen, sleep

High School Athlete Nutrition Podcast – Episode #38 Breakfast for Champions: Why the First Meal Matters In this episode, we’re talking all about the importance of breakfast for athletes - what to eat, when to eat it, and how it can impact your performance on the field, court, or track. Key Topics Covered What happens if you skip breakfast? The key nutrients to eat for breakfast Quick and easy breakfast options Resources & Links Join the Academy. Your online sports nutrition library for athletes and their parents FREE Breakfast Recipe Pack "You need the BFF or protein and carbs working together!" Ready to fuel like a champion? Join The Academy, this is your go to nutrition library for high school athletes and families. Join my community! Follow me on Instagram @highschool.athlete.nutritionGot a question or topic idea? Message me here

High School Athlete Nutrition Podcast – Episode #36 You lost your period. Now what? In this episode, we’re talking all about what to do when you lose your menstrual cycle -  what to eat, when to eat it, and how it can impact your performance on the field, court, or track. Key Topics Covered Increasing your fuel Focusing on carbohydrates and essential nutrients Taking advantage of a true rest day Pulling together your fueling plan to get a regular period Resources & Links Join the Academy. Your online sports nutrition library for athletes and their parents Free Game Day Nutrition Checklist "Some athletes think it's normal to lose your period. I’m going to tell you this. It can be common, but it is most certainly not normal." Ready to fuel like a champion? Join The Academy, this is your go to nutrition library for high school athletes and families. Join my community! Follow me on Instagram @highschool.athlete.nutritionGot a question or topic idea? Message me here

Let's talk about snacks that are packed with fuel to help you energize your game. Resources: Join me in the Academy! Your stop for the tools you need to build a strong fueling plan. Grab your Ultimate Snack List for athletes here! Check out 88 Acres for nut free snacks and seed butters.

Next week is the start of National Eating Disorders Awareness (NEDA) Week—a time to bring attention to the struggles of disordered eating and eating disorders. These issues are especially prevalent among athletes, who often face unique pressures related to body image, performance, and societal expectations. In today’s episode, we’ll discuss the challenges of disordered eating in high school athletes, share warning signs to look out for, and offer practical solutions to help you or a teammate navigate these challenges. Resources: National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) International Olympic Committee (IOC) REDs Consensus Statement Contact me Special thanks to NEDA for their advocacy and educational initiatives around eating disorders and disordered eating during NEDA Week.

In this episode of High School Athlete Nutrition, I am diving into the vital role calcium plays in your performance, recovery, and overall health. Learn why calcium is a must have nutrient for building strong bones, preventing injuries, and supporting muscle function. Discover practical tips for meeting your calcium needs with a mix of dairy, non-dairy, and fortified food options. Resources: Ultimate Athlete Snack List Let me know what topics you want to hear about!