Every item of food contains nutrients. These are the components that construct and create the food. The amount of each nutrient contained varies greatly from product to product, and the ratio of each can determine how nourishing the food really is. It is therefore essential for the coach to be able to educate their players on the different nutrients and the role they have within the human body. Once this understanding is gained individuals can then take responsibility for their own consumption as they are fully aware of the nutrients that their body requires.

This section provides information on each of the main nutrients and the roles they play within the body. It also suggests how much of the daily diet should come from each nutrient.

Carbohydrates : Carbohydrates provide the body and, in particular the cells, with the energy necessary to perform the required activities. Read on

Protein : Proteins are responsible for approximately 15% of the mass of the average person. Read on

Fat : Within our normal diets there are two different kinds of fat. They are: saturated and unsaturated. Read on

Fibre : Otherwise known to many as ‘roughage’, fibre is basically the carbohydrates that cannot be broken down by a human’s digestive enzymes. Read on

Water : Water is responsible for approximately two thirds of an individuals’ body weight. Read on

Vitamins and Minerals : An individuals’ diet cannot be well balanced unless a sufficient of the correct vitamins and minerals are included. Read on

Energy : The intake of energy can be measured in joules; however it is common for people to use the term calories in everyday life. Read on