Justin Phongsavanh, a U.S. Paralympian and bronze medalist in seated javelin throw, expressed his admiration for the chocolate muffins served at the Paralympic Village. However, athletes like him cannot rely solely on muffins, and their dietary teams face intricate challenges that require tailored solutions, even as research in this field is lacking.
According to applied sports nutrition scientist Joëlle Leonie Flück, the dietary needs of para athletes vary significantly based on their sports, disabilities, and underlying conditions. For example, a wheelchair basketball player with full arm mobility may require different fueling strategies compared to a quadriplegic wheelchair rugby player.
Para athletes often face gastrointestinal issues due to fiber deficiencies, high sodium levels, and even spice sensitivities. At the Team USA High Performance Center near Paris, nutrition director Brian Knutson and dietitian Hilary Kave ensure that athletes receive meals tailored to their preferences and requirements.
In addition to dietary considerations, para athletes may struggle with staying hydrated, especially those with spinal cord injuries who have difficulty regulating body temperature. Andrew Shepherd, from Loughborough University, highlighted the importance of implementing cooling strategies like ice vests and packs for these athletes.
Accessibility in dining halls is another crucial aspect for para athletes. Simple adjustments, like providing slanted boxes and bowls, can make a significant difference for wheelchair users and individuals of short stature in reaching food.
While supporting Paralympians with their nutritional needs, experts emphasize the importance of educating athletes about nutrition as a life skill to help them make informed choices beyond their competitive careers.
The approach to addressing nutritional challenges varies among countries, with some bringing dedicated dining staff and dietitians to the Paralympics, while others do not. As research on the physiology and health needs of Paralympians is limited, most adjustments are made on a case-by-case basis, utilizing general guidelines adapted from able-bodied athletes. More extensive research is needed in this area to better serve para athletes and their diverse requirements.
