Health Tips Of The Week - Young Athletes

Football season is here, as is soccer, volleyball and cross-country. Here are some tips to keep your young athlete injury free this season;

- Wear proper equipment. All pads, helmets and shoes should fit properly.

- Eat well. The foods you eat are what provide the fuel you burn during activity. Avoid high fat and sugar foods. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.

- Keep hydrated. A rule of thumb is for teens to drink at least 8 8 ounce glasses of water per day, with younger children getting at least 5-8.

- Drink milk. Exercise helps build healthy bones, but only if you've got the building blocks. Milk provides the calcium that's needed.

- Stay away from sodas and sugary drinks. Sports drinks should only be used when athletes are engaged in long duration sports activities.

- Warm up. Jogging, jumping rope, etc. helps to reduce risk of torn and ripped muscles.

- Avoid supplements. A proper diet should provide all the nutrition you need, provided you have a proper workout routine.

- Get plenty of rest. Get at least 8 hours of sleep per night.

From JACA Healthy Living Fact Sheet