Thread by @WePublicHealth

Today nutrition. Young cricketers need to be fit and able to play six hours a day, repeatedly. For the girls in the u15 national championships, it's six full days of cricket out of seven. They need energy, bone health, hydration, growth and development. #WomenInSport #Cricket

Poor nutrition plays a part in tiredness, poor concentration and an increased risk of injury. #WomenInSport #Cricket

Cricketers who are on the pathway towards the elite level have access to a nutritionist, who gives them talks and information and is on the end of the phone or email for questions.

‘Food first,’ they’re told. Low GI and carbohydrate, five to six times a day. Regular snacks, preferably an hour before and immediately after training and games. ‘Never train hungry’, they’re told. #WomenInSport #Cricket

They’re told to avoid anything with added protein, as they can’t be sure it’s not contaminated with steroids and other banned substances. #WomenInSport #Cricket

And they’re told to avoid supplements at all costs, unless prescribed by a doctor and approved by the Cricket NSW doctor. Even for something as simple as vitamin C. @DrJohnOrchard #WomenInSport #Cricket

@DrJohnOrchard These girls, at age 13 to 15, now fall under the aegis of the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Agency. #WomenInSport #Cricket
asada.gov.au

@DrJohnOrchard They are told to check any drugs, medications or substances they may take. #WomenInSport #Cricket
asada.gov.au/substances

@DrJohnOrchard They can be drug tested at any time. #WomenInSport #Cricket
asada.gov.au/anti-doping-pr…

@DrJohnOrchard It’s all good stuff, setting the girls up for a healthy life – exercise regularly, eat wholefoods, minimise alcohol, sleep well. #WomenInSport #Cricket

@DrJohnOrchard And monitor yourself. The girls weigh themselves before and after a match during tournaments so they know hw much fluid they need to replace. #WomenInSport #Cricket