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Nutrition Nutritional aspects of immuno-suppression in athletes Bishop, N & Blannin, A (1999). Sports Medicine (1999) Vol 28, No 3, pp 151-176. A heavy schedule of training and competition may lead to immunosuppression in athletes, placing them at greater risk of contracting infectious illnesses, especially those affecting the upper respiratory tract. Epidemiological and clinical data suggests that nutritional deficiencies alter immunocompetence and increase risk of infection. This article examines the role of nutrition in exercise-induced immunosuppression. Carbohydrate is the most important nutrient in an athlete's diet because it is the only fuel that can power intense exercise for prolonged periods. The current recommended daily intake of carbohydrate is 8-IOg/kg body mass for athletes who train for more than two hours each day. The absolute quantity of carbohydrate in the diet is a more important determinant of glycogen resynthesis than is the percentage of daily intake.
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