Fueling Young Athletes: Nutrition Basics for Momentum Baseball Families

Proper nutrition is as important as pitching mechanics or fielding drills. When young players are fueled well, they have the energy to train hard, recover quickly, and stay healthier over a long season. Think of each snack or meal as another chance to build strength and stamina.

The basic game-day formula is simple: hydrate early and often, load up on complex carbohydrates the night before (whole-grain pasta, brown rice, sweet potatoes), and follow play with a protein-rich recovery meal to rebuild muscle. Doctors at the University of Chicago Medicine note that “a meal of complex carbohydrates the day before and a high-protein diet after” supports performance and repair for youth athletes. uchicagomedicine.org

Avoid the supplement aisle until your athlete’s regular diet is dialed in. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns that popular weight-gain and protein powders are often unregulated and may add more fat than muscle, so whole-food options should come first. aap.org Encourage colorful plates, plenty of water, and post-practice snacks like chocolate milk or turkey wraps—simple habits that deliver big-league results.