Development of a Nutrition Education Program for Athletes in a University Setting.

Abstract

LEARNING OUTCOME: To identify steps taken in the development of a program designed to enhance the nutition knowledge of college athletes. Due to the recent NCAA ruling that collegiate athletes may no longer have eating facilities separate from the general school population, there has been an increasing concern about the quality of the athlete's diet. Prior to the ruling, athletes at the University of Florida ate in a private dining hall, and the university nutritionist had a significant role in the food choices available. A recent survey of male and female athletes showed that since this ruling, many athletes are choosing to eat off campus or are preparing their meals at home. The nutritionist has minimal impact in regards to the foods available to the athletes, and the athletes now have increased responsibility for their own food selections. It has been observed by trainers, coaches and the nutritionists that the athletes are not always making wise choices. In response to these changes, an innovative nutrition education program was implemented in September 1996. All incoming athletes are now required to meet with a nutritionist at least once a year. To increase nutrition knowledge, two nutrition education programs were created. One is a monthly newsletter, the Chompin’ Gator, which provides nutrition information targeting the student athlete and highlighting and evaluating popular food choices. The other program consists of a series of nutrition education messages, Gator Bites, which are posted in the locker rooms. These programs are being used to enhance the nutrition knowledge and performance potential of student athletes.