) provide a safe and adequate balance of vitamins. However, it should not be forgotten that the goal is still to eat a wide variety of foods. Food contains fiber and a multitude of phytochemicals that provide many health benefits. Supplements should never be replacements for food. While many sports supplements contain the antioxidant beta carotene, at least 450 carotenoids are only found in food. Pantry Staples Canned products don t compromise nutrition. Upon being harvested fruits and vegetables are processed to keep nutrients locked in. Beans that are canned are nutrient dense, and will load you with the important fuel for maximum growth and sports performance. Canned tuna and salmon are rich in protein and omega-3 fats, which have been shown to help conditions of cancer, heart disease, arthritis and mental health. Before being lured by such products, it is essential that there has to be a clear understanding of the components first. Moreover, the legitimacy of the claims must be initially confirmed as well. Otherwise, instead of getting better results, the opposite might take place. Enough research and observations of previous experiences and circumstances must likewise be available to an education about sports nutrition. Vitamin C is water soluble and excess of which is easily discharged through sweat and urine. To avoid sports anemia, especially to females who lose blood every month due to menstruation, the mineral iron should be part of an athlete's list of sports nutrition supplements. Iron, in blood, is responsible for carrying clean oxygen to healthy body cells and removing carbon dioxide from them. Today, go into almost any supermarket, convenience stores and even school cafeterias and you ll find a ready supply of sports drinks aimed at maintaining hydration just like glucose solutions. The difference is that by using soluble long-chain glucose polymers instead of simple glucose, it s now possible to create an isotonic hydrating drink which also supplies significant amounts of carbohydrate to working muscles. So basically, if you are an athlete and you want to have that winning edge, then you better get that right nutrition. When you drink enough water and eat a balanced diet and also get the right sports nutrition, your body can utilize energy efficiently and also fuel top performance. You can make the most of your athletic talents and have more strength, power and endurance when you get the right sports nutrition.