GLOSSARY

Youth Athlete A young person participating in sport whose care must support healthy development as well as training.

Young athletes need nutrition for growth, maturation, learning and health as well as exercise. Chronological age does not fully describe biological maturity, and growth spurts can change appetite and requirements. Plan accessible meals and snacks around school, travel and training with suitable family support. Avoid transferring adult weight-loss targets, body-composition ideals or supplement routines to children. Faltering growth, persistent fatigue, delayed development or restrictive eating calls for age-appropriate professional assessment rather than simply demanding greater discipline or more training.

Growth assessment compares accurate serial measurements with an age- and sex-appropriate standard or reference. Confirm exact age, measurement technique and the chosen chart. A percentile describes relative position; a z-score describes distance from the reference distribution under that chart's model. A change in trajectory can warrant assessment without establishing one nutritional cause. Adult body-mass categories do not transfer directly to children. For young athletes, interpret growth together with maturation, health and intake rather than treating a low body mass as evidence of superior fitness.

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.