Elite athletes train and compete at high intensity and undertake multiple training sessions; for most elite athletes this is their job.
Elite athletes are highly motivated; they seek and appreciate the nutrition advice that they are offered and usually adhere to recommendations.
Fueling strategies should focus on energy and carbohydrate availability.
During competition, the athlete is most focused on acute issues of fueling and hydration before, during, and after an event.
Travel plays a major role for the elite athlete; domestic and international competitions disrupt the athlete’s usual eating routine and access to their preferred foods and expose them to a different standard of food and water hygiene.
Sports dietitians who work with elite athletes should practice ethical behaviors in all dealings with the athletes.