Assessing Vegetarian Athletes’ Needs
Suggested CDR Learning Codes: 2070, 2090, 3020, 3030, 4060, 4110; Level 2
Suggested CDR Performance Indicators: 8.2.1, 8.2.3, 8.2.4
Like all athletes, vegetarian athletes seek dietary strategies that will maximize performance. Counseling vegetarian athletes can be challenging because there is limited research on this segment of the population. This continuing education activity reviews the current science relating to vegetarian diets and athletic performance. Guidance for performing a thorough nutrition assessment of the vegetarian athlete is discussed, together with strategies and considerations for providing appropriate individualized nutrition interventions to maximize the athlete's health and performance.
Course content appeared as the CPE Monthly in the January 2015 issue of Today’s Dietitian.
Learning Objectives
After completing this continuing education course, nutrition professionals should be better able to:
- Identify common nutrition-related concerns for vegetarian athletes.
- Assess vegetarian athletes for individual differences that may affect nutrient needs.
- Evaluate a vegetarian athlete’s need for supplements.
- Determine macro- and micronutrient intakes for vegetarian athletes to maximize physical performance and health.
- Develop individualized nutrition interventions appropriate for vegetarian athletes.
Kristine Duncan, MS, RDN, CDE is a nutrition instructor at Skagit Valley College in Mount Vernon, Washington, a freelance writer, and nutrition blogger.
The author has no relevant disclosures to report regarding this program. She has certified that no conflict of interest exists for this program. View our disclosure policy.
Available Credit
- 2.00 CDR