GLOSSARY

Dietary Intervention changes food intake or eating behavior to address a defined outcome, with implementation and follow-up.

A dietary pattern describes foods and eating habits across time, whereas a prescribed diet specifies a planned intervention. Names alone do not establish actual composition or quality. Assess usual foods, portions, preparation, affordability and the person's preferences before judging the plan. For an athlete, connect those observations to training demand and recovery. A useful approach can change with the season, a medical condition or practical access without requiring an entirely new dietary identity.

An adequate diet provides sufficient energy and essential nutrients while fitting health needs. A high score for variety or a healthy food label cannot independently demonstrate adequacy. Review what is actually eaten, including foods excluded and suitable replacements. Athletes can consume many vegetables yet still lack enough energy or carbohydrate for training. Assess the overall pattern, distribution and relevant nutrient risks rather than assuming that a single food or supplement makes the entire diet balanced.

For example, start with the person's usual meals and the problem the intervention is meant to address. Specify a feasible change, its intended outcome and the review point. For an athlete, check that the change also leaves enough fuel for the actual training schedule rather than judging success only by how closely a named diet is followed.

Adherence concerns how closely an agreed plan is carried out over time. It is influenced by cost, work, family, symptoms, cooking skills and whether the plan is realistic. Difficulties are information for adjustment rather than proof of weak character. Agree on specific actions and review their feasibility. A modest, sustainable change can be more useful than an ambitious prescription that repeatedly prevents the athlete from eating enough or functioning comfortably in daily life.