Nutrition and its impact on the performance level of football players from the perspective of coaches in the first division of the amateur national league

Abstract

The in-depth scientific view aimed at raising the scientific level of the athlete acknowledges that the athletic personality is a subject of study and application in the field of physical activity. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the capabilities and potential of the athletic personality in order to develop it to achieve its best motor performances. One of the most important factors for successful physical activity is a balanced diet. Therefore, a healthy diet provides the green light for regulating an athlete's diet, as the components of an ideal meal must include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and salts. Nutrition and sports play a fundamental role in human life, and the principles of healthy nutrition must be observed. Food should be sufficient to meet all the body's needs, as it is a basic source of energy. There are general rules that should be observed regarding athletes' nutrition so that it does not become a cause of impaired muscle performance. Any error in an athlete's nutrition leads to a loss of energy and muscle capacity. Scientific research over the past twenty years has confirmed the importance and benefits of proper nutrition and its positive impact on athletic performance. There is no doubt now that what an athlete eats and drinks will affect their health, weight, body composition, and fuel sources during and after exercise, and even more so during athletic competitions. Optimal nutrition improves physical activity, athletic performance, and recovery from physical exertion. The reality observed in medical circles is that FIFA, for example, as a global federation that oversees one of the world's most popular team sports, football, has become increasingly aware of the importance of players' health. This awareness has grown significantly in recent years, and FIFA now supports medical and scientific conferences on matters related to players' health and safety, as part of its strategies to develop and promote the game. It has even become customary to hold a medical conference before the start of the World Cup, which has increased the need for a comprehensive and structured nutritional program for football players at all levels and according to age groups.