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Expert Q&A

	By Frances M. Berg, M.S. Nutritionist Wellness Specialist

My daughter refuses to eat before her soccer games because she feels she'll work off more calories that way. I know it's important for her to eat before strenuous sports on a hot day. What should I do?

Your daughter joined her sports team for the same reason many girls do – to try to lose weight. That's a common reason, but it can easily lead to trouble. Instead, help her move on by focusing on the pleasure, increased skills and friendships she's gaining from the sport. Help her accept, respect and appreciate herself just as she is. Explain that being a good athlete and team member is not about burning calories, but being at her best for every game.

You are right that she needs to be well nourished, consuming a balance of all five food groups. Eating a low-fat, high-carb meal, such as spaghetti, an hour or more before strenuous play will help her feel good and perform at her best.

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