Nutrition is considered a tool that can reduce the consequences of stress generated by physical exercise. For satisfactory performance, any athlete's diet must contain adequate amounts of various nutrients that are used to provide energy for various processes in the body, including tissue regeneration. 

Thus, it is suggested that adequate nutrition can ensure good athletic performance in training and competitions.

These nutritional needs change according to the period of the training cycle, when there may be an increase or reduction in the volume and/or intensity of training.

Other factors that can influence athletes' food intake and choices include body composition goals (e.g., weight loss, increased muscle mass, or reduced body fat percentage) and the sport in question. For example, in Judo and Rowing (lightweight), weight control is required, and in other sports, such as Artistic Gymnastics and Artistic Swimming, aesthetics (a low body fat percentage) must be consistent with athlete performance.

Therefore, it is important that the athlete understands all the points mentioned above so that they know the best way to assemble their plate and, thus, ensure the best performance.