ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of the macro- and micronutrient intake, as well as the eating attitudes and behaviors of figure skaters. Nutritional recommendations for athletes require the assessment of energy intake and expenditure, which are then used to estimate energy balance or availability. In turn, this information helps make individual modifications for overall energy and macronutrient needs. Collection of diet logs and subsequent evaluation by a registered nutritionist is a suitable method to evaluate the energy intake by an athlete. Concurrent with the use of diet logs, athletes should also have energy expenditure evaluated. Total energy expenditure consists of the following three components: resting energy expenditure; physical activity; and the thermic effect of food. Adequate hydration for fluid and electrolyte replacement is necessary for optimal performance. A simple field-based approach to evaluate hydration is measuring urine specific gravity. Another way to individualize monitoring hydration is body mass changes.
