The Bottom Line

The human body is resilient and can continue to function under extreme states of stress such as starvation, sickness, and injury. Adequate nutrient intake can help athletes recover as quickly as possible from injuries and can help them keep their bodies strong, thereby preventing future injury. There is no magic pill that will heal broken bones or injured muscles, but providing the body with adequate amounts of the essential calories and nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, and minerals, can speed healing and reduce recover time.