Sustainable sports nutrition – a narrative review of evidence-based approaches towards more sustainable diets for athletes

Abstract

Introduction: The intersection of sports and sustainability is increasingly significant, given the substantial environmental impact of sports activities. This includes constructing and maintaining sports facilities, athlete mobility, and waste generation at large events. Fur-thermore, athletes are often characterized by unsustainable dietary practices due to increased caloric intake, high protein intake, and dietary supplement consumption. Purpose: This narrative review aims to explore the role of athletes as frontrunners in promoting sustainable practices, particularly in their dietary choices, and to assess the potential environmental benefits of adopting more sustainable nutrition habits in sports. Main outcomes: The sports sector contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly through high energy consumption and waste production. Sustainable dietary changes, such as reducing consumption of animal products, can significantly lower the ecological footprint of athletes. Athletes may, as role models, influence public behavior towards more sustainable nutrition practices. Approaches to combine sustainable nutrition with key factors of sports nutrition regarding energy and nutrient intake could support health and performance of athletes. However, it might be challenging for athletes with poor food literacy. Conclusion: Promoting sustainable nutrition among athletes benefits the environment and may also support athletes in achieving their training goals due to well-balanced diets. Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term impacts of these dietary changes on athletic performance.