Chandigarh,India – A one-day Annual National Nutrition Conference concluded on Saturday,August 31st,2025,at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh. The event, held during ‘Poshan Mah,’ or National Nutrition Month, centered on the theme of “Nutrition for Sports, Exercise, Performance and Health.”
Fueling Performance: The Conference’s Core Focus
Table of Contents
- 1. Fueling Performance: The Conference’s Core Focus
- 2. Key Insights from Leading Experts
- 3. The Growing Importance of Sports Nutrition
- 4. Understanding the Fundamentals of Sports Nutrition
- 5. Frequently asked questions About Sports Nutrition
- 6. What are the potential risks of self-supplementation without consulting a registered dietitian or sports nutritionist, notably for athletes?
- 7. PGIMER Chandigarh Hosts National Nutrition Conference: Fueling Sports, Exercise, and Optimal Health During Poshan Maah 2025
- 8. Poshan Maah 2025 & The Importance of Sports Nutrition
- 9. Key Themes and Discussions at the PGIMER Conference
- 10. The Role of PGIMER Chandigarh in Advancing Nutrition Science
- 11. Benefits of Evidence-based Sports Nutrition
- 12. Practical Tips for Athletes & Fitness Enthusiasts
- 13. Future Directions
the conference addressed the growing understanding of the vital role nutrition plays in athletic achievement and general well-being. This year’s National Nutrition Month, with its theme of “nutritious Food for All, From Children to Elderly,” complemented the conference’s focus on tailoring nutritional plans to individual needs, including those of dedicated sports enthusiasts.
The primary objective of the conference was to equip attendees with nutritional strategies designed to maximize performance, minimize injury risks, and address potential nutrient deficiencies. Experts highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to nutrition, integrating scientific knowledge with practical application.
Key Insights from Leading Experts
Dr. Nancy Sahni, Chief Dietician and Head of the Department of dietetics at PGIMER, presided over the conference as Organizing Chairperson. Dr. sahni underscored the intricate relationship between nutritional science, exercise performance, muscle recovery, and enhanced endurance. Mr. BN Behra, a senior dietician with the Department of Dietetics at PGI, served as the Organizing Secretary.
The program officially commenced with opening remarks delivered by Prof.R.K. Ratho, Dean (Academic), and Prof. Vipin Kaushal, Medical Superintendent and Head of the Department of Hospital Governance at PGI, Chandigarh.
Distinguished experts and speakers specializing in sports nutrition shared their expertise, clarifying common misconceptions surrounding nutritional supplements and food choices. They emphasized strategies for improving both physical and mental capabilities, injury prevention, and expediting recovery processes. A live online portal facilitated questions from participants worldwide, which where then addressed during a panel discussion featuring specialists in nutrition, orthopedics, gastroenterology, physical medicine, rehabilitation, and psychiatry.
The conference attracted a robust attendance of over 400 delegates, marking it as a resounding success.
The Growing Importance of Sports Nutrition
recent data from the Global Sports Nutrition Market Report (2024) indicates a projected market value of $47.77 billion by 2030, demonstrating a notable increase in awareness and investment in sports nutrition. This growth reflects a wider recognition of the performance-enhancing benefits of tailored dietary plans.
Did You Know? The timing of nutrient intake is just as crucial as the nutrients themselves. Consuming carbohydrates and protein within 30-60 minutes post-exercise can substantially aid in muscle recovery.
| Nutrient | Role in sports performance |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Primary energy source for high-intensity exercise. |
| Protein | Muscle repair and growth. |
| Hydration | Maintains blood volume, regulates body temperature. |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Supports various metabolic processes and overall health. |
Pro Tip: Consult with a registered dietitian or sports nutritionist to create a personalized nutrition plan that aligns with your training goals and individual needs.
Understanding the Fundamentals of Sports Nutrition
Effective sports nutrition isn’t merely about consuming high-protein shakes. It’s a science that considers the specific demands of an athlete’s training regimen, body composition, and overall health. Key components include macronutrient balance (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats), micronutrient adequacy (vitamins and minerals), and proper hydration.
Different sports require different nutritional strategies. For example, endurance athletes need to prioritize carbohydrate loading, while strength athletes require higher protein intake.
Frequently asked questions About Sports Nutrition
- What is the role of carbohydrates in sports nutrition? Carbohydrates are the primary fuel source for most types of exercise, providing energy for muscle contractions.
- How much protein do athletes need? Protein requirements vary depending on the sport and intensity of training, but generally, athletes need more protein than sedentary individuals.
- What are the benefits of hydration for athletes? Proper hydration is essential for maintaining blood volume, regulating body temperature, and preventing fatigue.
- Are sports supplements necessary? While some supplements can be beneficial, a well-balanced diet should be the foundation of an athlete’s nutrition plan.
- How can I create a personalized nutrition plan? Consulting with a registered dietitian or sports nutritionist is recommended to develop a plan tailored to your specific needs.
What are your thoughts on the growing emphasis on nutrition in sports performance? Share your insights in the comments below!
What are the potential risks of self-supplementation without consulting a registered dietitian or sports nutritionist, notably for athletes?
PGIMER Chandigarh Hosts National Nutrition Conference: Fueling Sports, Exercise, and Optimal Health During Poshan Maah 2025
Poshan Maah 2025 & The Importance of Sports Nutrition
September marks Poshan Maah (National Nutrition Month) in India, a nationwide initiative to combat malnutrition and promote healthy eating habits. This year, the spotlight shone brightly on the crucial link between nutrition and physical performance as PGIMER (Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research), Chandigarh, hosted a landmark National Nutrition Conference focused on “Nutrition for Sports, Exercise, Performance, and Health.” The conference, held from [Insert Dates if available – or else remove this sentence], brought together leading nutritionists, sports scientists, athletes, and healthcare professionals to discuss the latest advancements in sports nutrition, exercise physiology, and thier impact on overall well-being.
Key Themes and Discussions at the PGIMER Conference
The conference agenda was packed with insightful sessions covering a wide spectrum of topics. Here’s a breakdown of some key areas explored:
Macronutrient Optimization for Athletes: Discussions centered around tailoring carbohydrate, protein, and fat intake to specific sports performance demands. Emphasis was placed on the timing of nutrient intake – pre-,during-,and post-exercise – to maximize recovery and adaptation. The role of glycogen replenishment and muscle protein synthesis were frequently highlighted.
Micronutrient Roles in Athletic Performance: Beyond macronutrients, the conference delved into the vital roles of vitamins and minerals. Specific attention was given to iron, vitamin D, calcium, and electrolytes, and their impact on athletic endurance, injury prevention, and immune function.
Hydration Strategies for Peak Performance: maintaining optimal hydration is paramount for athletes. Experts discussed personalized hydration plans based on sweat rate, exercise intensity, and environmental conditions. The importance of electrolyte balance and the potential benefits of sports drinks were also debated.
Nutrition for Different Sports Disciplines: Recognizing that nutritional needs vary significantly across different sports, dedicated sessions addressed the specific requirements of endurance athletes (marathon runners, cyclists), strength-based athletes (weightlifters, powerlifters), and team sport athletes (football, basketball). Sport-specific nutrition plans were a central theme.
The Gut Microbiome and Athletic Performance: Emerging research on the gut microbiome’s influence on athletic performance was a hot topic. Presentations explored how probiotics and prebiotics can enhance nutrient absorption, reduce inflammation, and improve overall gut health in athletes.
Nutrition for Injury Rehabilitation: The conference also addressed the role of nutrition in accelerating injury recovery.Specific nutrients were identified as playing a crucial role in tissue repair,reducing inflammation,and restoring optimal function.
The Role of PGIMER Chandigarh in Advancing Nutrition Science
PGIMER Chandigarh has long been a leading institution in medical research and education. Hosting this national conference underscores its commitment to advancing the field of nutrition science, particularly in the context of sports and exercise. The institute’s faculty actively contribute to research on nutritional interventions for various health conditions, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. This conference served as a platform to disseminate this knowledge and foster collaboration among researchers and practitioners.
Benefits of Evidence-based Sports Nutrition
Implementing evidence-based sports nutrition strategies offers a multitude of benefits:
Enhanced Performance: Optimized nutrition fuels muscles, improves endurance, and enhances overall athletic performance.
Faster Recovery: Proper nutrient intake accelerates muscle repair, reduces soreness, and speeds up recovery between training sessions.
Reduced Risk of Injury: Adequate nutrition strengthens bones, ligaments, and tendons, reducing the risk of sports-related injuries.
Improved Immune Function: A well-nourished immune system is better equipped to fight off infections, keeping athletes healthy and training consistently.
Optimal Body Composition: Nutrition plays a key role in achieving and maintaining a healthy body composition, which is crucial for athletic success.
Practical Tips for Athletes & Fitness Enthusiasts
Here are some actionable tips based on the discussions at the PGIMER conference:
- Prioritize Whole Foods: Focus on consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Hydrate Consistently: Drink water throughout the day, especially before, during, and after exercise.
- Time Your Nutrient Intake: Consume carbohydrates and protein within 30-60 minutes after exercise to replenish glycogen stores and promote muscle recovery.
- Consider Supplementation (with guidance): While a food-first approach is ideal,certain supplements (e.g., vitamin D, iron) may be beneficial for athletes with specific deficiencies. Consult a registered dietitian or sports nutritionist* before taking any supplements.
- Personalize Your nutrition Plan: Work with a qualified professional to develop a nutrition plan tailored to your individual needs, sport, and training goals.