#023 Sports nutrition - Aimee Ellen O Keefe - Hints, tips and mistakes not to make with nutrition

Mistakes not to make with nutrition with Aimee Ellen O'Keefe Guest Introduction

Aimee Ellen O'Keefe is a performance nutritionist with an impressive background in sports nutrition. She has worked with:

• Manchester United Women's Football Team (First full-time nutritionist in WSL in 2021)
• England Rugby Red Roses
• Williams Racing (Performance Nutrition for Academy Drivers and Pit Stop Crew)

Episode Highlights Guest Background (00:00:57)

• Grew up in Liverpool with a football background
• Played football from a young age, including Everton Center of Excellence
• Transitioned to nutrition after realising the importance of proper fueling

Nutrition in Football (00:06:47)

• Identified key nutrition gaps at Manchester United
• Implemented simple changes like adding bagels and fruit options
• Focused on carbohydrate availability and accessibility

Carbohydrates in Sports (00:11:26)

• Primary energy source for high-intensity exercise
• Importance of carbohydrate loading 24 hours before match/training
• Addressing stigma around carbohydrate consumption in female sports

Disordered Eating (00:13:16)

• Discussed challenges with nutrition in female sports
• Addressed impacts of social media and body image pressures
• Highlighted unintentional and intentional under-fueling

Nutrition Across Different Sports (00:15:13)

• Compared nutrition approaches in football and rugby
• Discussed unique nutrition needs for Williams Racing pit stop crew and drivers

Female Football Nutrition Network (00:25:46)

• Co-founded with Dr. James Morehen
• Mission to improve performance nutrition for female footballers
• Developed an app and Instagram community for education

Where to Find Aimee

• Instagram: @femalefootballnutrition

Where to Find the Podcast

• Podcast: Women's Football Hub

Key References

• Carbohydrate loading strategies
• Performance nutrition for team sports
• Nutrition for high-intensity athletes
• Body image and sports nutrition

Disclaimer

The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.