CSSD Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Resource

The focus on the maintenance of energy balance is crucial for youth athletes because it emphasizes the importance of consuming sufficient calories to meet the high energy demands of their training and competition. When young athletes maintain energy balance, they are less likely to engage in unhealthy eating behaviors that can lead to disordered eating. Achieving energy balance means that the calories consumed through food and beverages match the calories expended through physical activity, which not only supports their performance but also promotes overall health and well-being.

Promoting energy balance helps to foster a positive relationship with food, reducing the risk of restrictive eating patterns or binge eating that can often arise from an imbalance. This is especially important in youth, as they are in a critical period of growth and development where proper nutrition is essential.

In contrast, focusing solely on protein intake, restricting carbohydrates, or increasing dietary fats can lead to an unbalanced diet and may encourage unhealthy behaviors. For instance, an emphasis on protein without regard to overall energy intake could result in inadequate caloric consumption, while carbohydrate restriction can compromise energy levels and performance. Thus, maintaining energy balance stands out as a key dietary consideration for youth athletes in the prevention of disordered eating.