When creating individualized nutrition plans for young athletes to achieve weight goals, it's crucial to consider their specific needs and requirements. Consulting with nutrition professionals can provide valuable insights and guidance in developing tailored plans.

First and foremost, it's important to assess the athlete's current dietary habits, training regimen, and overall health. This assessment can include analyzing their macronutrient and micronutrient intake, understanding any dietary restrictions or allergies, and evaluating their body composition and energy expenditure.

Once the initial assessment is complete, nutrition professionals can work with the young athletes to set realistic and healthy weight goals. For example, if an athlete needs to gain weight to support muscle growth and performance, the nutrition plan may focus on increasing calorie and protein intake through nutrient-dense foods such as lean meats, dairy, and whole grains.

Conversely, if an athlete needs to lose weight while maintaining energy levels for training, the nutrition plan may involve creating a slight calorie deficit through portion control and emphasizing nutrient-rich, low-calorie foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

Furthermore, individualized plans should take into account the timing of meals and snacks to support training and recovery. For example, pre- and post-workout nutrition can play a critical role in optimizing performance and promoting muscle repair and growth.

References:

• American College of Sports Medicine. (2016). Nutrition and Athletic Performance. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 48(3), 543-568.
• Ranchordas, M. K. (Ed.). (2019). Nutrition for Elite Athletes. CRC Press.