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Nancy Clark's Sports Nutrition Guidebook

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Boost energy, lose fat, build muscle, and improve your performance with the best-selling nutrition guide for active people!

In Nancy Clark’s Sports Nutrition Guidebook, you’ll get real-world advice from an internationally respected and trusted sports nutritionist. You’ll find the latest research and information on what to eat before, during, and after exercise; sport drinks and energy foods; popular trends like keto and gluten-free diets; when and how much carbohydrate to eat; meal patterns that fit your training schedule; sustainability; and digestive issues. You’ll learn practical tips regarding vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, low-FODMAP, and bariatric diets. You’ll also find help for athletes with anorexia and binge-eating disorders. You'll learn how to resolve confusion about what to on a daily basis so you can make healthy and informed dietary decisions for yourself and your busy family.

Clark's practical suggestions for eating on the go will help you make good choices in any restaurant, café, drive-through, or convenience store. Learn what to eat before and during exercise and events, how to refuel for optimal recovery, and what athletes need to know about relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S). With 89 family-friendly recipes, you’ll find plenty of meals to fuel performance that you can make right in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re preparing for competition or simply fueling your active lifestyle, Nancy Clark’s Sports Nutrition Guidebook will show you how to get maximum benefit from the foods you choose and the meals you make. Why settle for your current athletic level when a good fueling program can help you perform even better?

525 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1989

273 people are currently reading
1068 people want to read

About the author

Nancy Clark

94 books15 followers

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5 stars
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159 (17%)
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31 (3%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
Profile Image for Elaine.
70 reviews4 followers
July 18, 2010
I can't find fault with the author's approach to eating. She promotes whole foods, adequate calorie intake, listening to your body, and promoting a healthy body image. However, she appears to contradict herself constantly, usually within mere paragraphs. I'm not sure if that's because she takes research studies at face value or if it's because she's trying to fit too much information in too little space. One example is where she mentions soy as a vegetarian protein that contains all essential amino acids, then mentions it again in a list of incomplete vegetarian proteins (which she suggests combining so that you get all essential amino acids in the same meal, if not from a single food -- the effectiveness of which I'm already skeptical about).

It's worth noting that she includes nutrition information for a few categories of individuals: fitness exercisers, people who exercise for 30 minutes about four times a week; athletes, who exercise for an hour or more five or more days a week; and compulsive exercisers (or "exercise bulimics"), who exercise as much or more than an athlete, but as a coping mechanism or part of disordered eating.

This book 100% follows the USDA nutrition recommendations. The first quarter of the book goes over the food pyramid in astonishing detail, which I actually found interesting and helpful. She defines a "meal" as a combination of three (preferably four) or more of the five food groups, and a snack as two. Note that an entire food group is, of course, dairy. While it's noted that many people are lactose intolerant or vegetarian/vegan, the author suggests that such people see a registered dietitian to compensate. She goes so far as to classify most "vegetarians" in her practice as "non-meat eaters" who are borderline anorexic, as well.

However, I do believe that most of her advice is pretty good as long as you are a moderately active person: Eat high carbohydrates (of high quality) for energy and performance; eat a huge breakfast and big lunch and afternoon meal to quash your evening appetite; eat enough before exercise to fuel your activity and immediately after exercise to replenish your muscles; be aware of your hydration needs during prolonged exercise and plan for mid-exercise water, calories and minerals to increase performance.

Her two favorite "sports foods" appear to be peanut butter and chocolate milk, which she suggests eating at least once a chapter.

Also, the Kindle ebook is awful. Riddled with typos and sub-par formatting.
Profile Image for Julie.
521 reviews10 followers
December 16, 2013
Nancy Clark's Sports Nutrition Guidebook doesn't have a fancy name, but it doesn't really need it. For years, Clark's books have provided sound nutrition advice, information and research for both regularly active individuals and serious athletes. Years ago, my sister did her dietetics residency in Boston at U Mass Hospital, and she shared Clark's second edition book with me. I hung on to it for as long as possible, until she found it in my house months later and snagged it back. Today, as a registered dietitian specializing in sports nutrition, this is also her go-to study and reference book as well. Currently, she is a consultant for a division 1 university sports program, and she also works with clients on an individual basis. To maintain her R.D. and her specialty in sports nutrition, she is required to complete ongoing education and pass various exams. Clark's books are revised regularly, and provide her with essential information.

Still, Clark's writing is easy to understand and follow for the layperson like myself. Clark includes recipes and client examples, as well as little "nuggets" of wisdom. She reviews various well-known diets, comments on surgical options for weight loss, and ranks foods in terms of nutritional value. A wonderful resource.
Profile Image for Alexander.
45 reviews
October 22, 2021
Stopped reading - the book doesn’t make any sense whatsoever - no real facts are given, rather just thoughts on what you could eat based on product availability in the closest supermarket to the author’s whereabouts.
As an example, the book “SAS Survival Handbook” has a chapter on Food. In that chapter, the first 3 pages told me much more than half of the Nancy Clark’s Guidebook. This is when I decided I have to write this review.
Cheers.
309 reviews4 followers
January 20, 2016
I received this book from a goodreads giveaway.

This book is awesome! I has taken me almost 2 years to say that I'm done. That's because there is so much information in this book, I really didn't want to say I was finished with it. And I'm probably still not. This book will remain a reference tool for me. It is jam packed with lots of good information for athletes and anyone who wants to understand good nutrition. There are also lots of recipes and a wealth of information on nutrition, calories, best practices for workouts, eating plans, etc. This is a terrific book for anyone looking to improve their athletic performance through nutrition, as well as anyone interested in improving their weight (increasing or decreasing weight) and getting the most out of your workouts.
Profile Image for JP.
1,163 reviews51 followers
March 19, 2016
I've read multiple Human Kinetics books and consistently find them credible and readable. Sports Nutrition equals that standard, and I can see why it's now in the 5th edition. Clark gives a lot of general guidance about what and how to eat, plus a lot of specialized advice for specific sports and situations. It's a big book, but the last half is recipes. Perhaps the most valuable component are the frequent call-outs to common conceptions, e.g. you need to eat directly after exercise to take advantage of the recovery window.
Profile Image for Priya.
22 reviews52 followers
February 15, 2008
read and indulged. i used it a lot when i was thinking about running a marathon and in the process of training for one. now i claim it as a nutrition bible. claimed to be for "jocks" mostly, but also good solid nutrition advice for the rest of the non-sportsy community. it's my favorite book on sports nutrition, and nancy clark is a top nutritionist, so eating up everything she says in her books and at nutrition conferences (which i pretty much do) wouldn't be a complete sham.
Profile Image for Crystal.
442 reviews
January 21, 2013
This was a very basic nutrition book. I would recommend it for new athletes, or people who have never studied or considered nutrition. Most of the information was good. I was surprised she recommended eating refined sugar, but then I realized that if you are training for a marathon you may not be able to eat enough calories. I liked how she emphasized the importance of eating nutritious calories and not just empty ones, and the book was well organized.
Profile Image for Simon-pierre Gagnon.
15 reviews2 followers
January 12, 2017
To be honest, I've read only the parts that were useful for me (Woman health tips is not that important for the man I am).
This is a great resource... even tho I doubt that everything is up to date or true. A read a lot about nutrition, for sports or for everyday life, and there's a lot missing in there. It's a great starting point for someone who doesn't know a lot about nutrition, but it's still important to read other books on the matter.
2 reviews
June 29, 2020
The “Sports Nutrition Guidebook” by Nancy Clark, presents useful information on strategies for utilizing food to maximize and produce high amounts of energy, find a balance between one’s weight and activity, and it even provides over 65 different recipes for each category of food and meal that incorporate the healthy eating habits addressed. Throughout this book, Clark frequently and effectively uses food science in order to define and defend the practices she expresses. The levels of vitamins and minerals (ex. Vitamin A,C, and potassium), cholesterol, Omega-3 Fatty acids, etc… are shown for almost every kind of food, describing their detailed, analytical and biological effects on our body. Additionally, the different molecular structures of each of the components of food composition (proteins, carbohydrates, starches, sugars, fats, ect…) are drawn. Monosaccharides, disaccharides, and complex carbohydrates are just some examples of the molecules presented in this way. These diagrams are used to educate the reader about the scientific processes that occur throughout our body and digestive system when they are consumed. The amounts and places that these components can be most commonly found are expressed using a variety of methods. A few of these methods include: the impacts of ripening with regards to certain perishable foods, explanations and the applicability of the glycemic index, and an in-depth description and diagram of our digestive system, starting with our mouth and ending with the large intensive.
The nutritional information and guidance conveyed not only effectively contributes useful instruction; but, exceptionally justifies and illustrates the analytical reasoning that makes these healthy practices accurate and true. Furthermore, a multitude of recipes are provided, actively implementing the habits and techniques recommended. These recipes contain the specific nutrients and their amounts; as well as, the number of calories per serving found within each dish. From what one buys at the grocery store to the meals prepared at home, reading this guidebook successfully shifts one’s mindset about food consumption. Understanding the science used to formulate the suggestions presented allows the reader to specifically apply this knowledge to their personal eating plan and schedule. Clark’s utilization and explanation of food science facilities this flexibility and ubiquitous applicability.
Profile Image for Bethany.
1,183 reviews20 followers
March 18, 2024
This was surprisingly great. I'm impressed that Nancy can so expertly address all the myriad eating nuances in one book. She advises like an expert, but also kind of like your cool bad ass grandma. I learned a few important things for myself. I would describe my eating problems as "eats whatever I want (but not garbage), and then tries to deal with it via modest exercise." I love vegetables and have literally od'ed on green beans, broccoli and brussels sprouts (spoiler alert, weird reactions if you eat these every day for a week). And I've never truly pushed myself. The central tenet of her message is that "you can have an excellent diet without having a perfect diet." Also, your weight depends on eating, but your fitness and health depend on exercise. And I loved all of that. I love the citations to expert studies. I love the anecdotes and personal stories. I 100% agree with her philosophy on dealing with kid eating issues. And I agree that a lot of variations of "special dietary restrictions" arise from an obsession with food. I just really like to eat and am apparently genetically predisposed to be slightly overweight unless I starve myself. I have been working on a transformation for 5 years, knowing that I needed to adopt lifelong habits - not a diet or a boot camp. And I've come a long way, but I realized this last year that I have never before truly pushed myself. But, Nancy agrees with me, I don't have to say no to cookies. I feel like she's giving me permission to just eat and not worry so much about it. Listen to your body. Every body is different. Eat what you like and that fuels your body. The only thing that I struggle with is vitamins. I have been taking vitamins my entire life. And I stopped for a few months when I was working with a personal trainer who also felt that I didn't need vitamins... but I noticed big differences and got back on them. Maybe it's just me. But I did pay close attention to what Nancy said I didn't need extra of. She deals with the hard eating issues as well, and I think that is important. She likes to say "if this sounds familiar, please talk to someone." And I like that a lot.
Profile Image for Levan.
39 reviews5 followers
May 6, 2023
Nancy Clark’s Sports Nutrition Guidebook is a must-read for anyone who wants to improve their health and performance through nutrition. This book covers everything from the basics of nutrition to the specific needs of different sports and activities.

One of the best features of this book is that it is based on scientific evidence and research. She provides clear and accurate information on topics such as carbohydrate, protein, fat, hydration, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and more.

Another great feature of this book is that it is tailored to the needs of active people. Whether you are a casual exerciser or a competitive athlete, you will find useful tips and strategies on how to fuel your body for optimal performance and recovery. You will also learn how to deal with common challenges such as weight management, food allergies, eating disorders, vegetarianism, aging, and more.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about sports nutrition and how to apply it to their own lives. This book is not only informative but also engaging and enjoyable to read. It is written in a friendly and conversational tone that makes you feel like you are talking to a trusted friend or coach. It is also full of examples, anecdotes, and testimonials from real people who have benefited from Nancy Clark’s advice.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars for its comprehensive and evidence-based guidelines on sports nutrition. It is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to eat well and perform well.
Profile Image for t. g. frank.
2 reviews
September 14, 2025
the good:
- info is solid, claims are cited
- Nancy does a great job breaking down academic research in lay terms
- recommendations are practical and reasonable (working out in the morning but can't eat? have breakfast at night. easy peasy)

the not so good (for me, personally):
- heavy skew towards endurance sports. that's fine, I can't fault her for writing what she knows, but it comes with a sprinkling of "this woman side eyes bodybuilders and powerlifters at least a little"
- the whole thing is sorta shit through with an emphasis on weight (specifically, lowering/keeping it low) and shape that extends beyond the practical (ie, making a weight class). Reeeeeally made me feel like it was 1995 and I was reading a diet book I found on my mom's bookshelf at times.

would still read again.
Profile Image for Garrett.
331 reviews7 followers
December 2, 2020
This book was recommended to me by my nutritionist for getting more detail and science-based information regarding how to best feed my body when training for endurance (and other) events.

This is a textbook. So the information is dense and the audience is assumed to have a good background in basic nutrition and health concepts. So, it took me awhile to get through. But the information was so useful and clear, that I was able to start implementing strategies from the start. I also appreciated her no-nonsense approach to diet and nutrition. She isn't trying to sell me on some expensive diet product or program. Instead, she focused on simple, real food and the value and benefits.

Very educational!
Profile Image for Kelli Dunagan.
84 reviews3 followers
February 25, 2022
I first read this book as part of a Sports Nutrition curriculum in college but as it reads more like a self-help book than a textbook, I decided to dive back in. Nancy Clark presents general nutrition information in a concise and understandable way that was interesting even to someone with multiple nutrition degrees. Many of her tips and tricks were helpful for a counseling perspective and I'm not afraid to admit that I've used her phrasing and suggestions in sessions with my own clients. The book is formatted in a logical way and the recipes are simple and effective. I have 100% suggested this book to friends and family members who come to me for nutrition and fitness advice and would 100% read it again when I'm in need of a refresher.
Profile Image for Ulzii.
99 reviews
May 10, 2020
This book is a good for those who has no idea about what is nutrition and want to have a health diet, or starting healthy eating life style. The book is easy to read, not many scientist naming, or unfamiliar words. As a student who is learning in Exercise and Nutrition science, I found this book useful to find common knowledge, and get idea about nutrition in general. I would recommend you to read it. It includes many useful advice including gaining weight or losing weight. You can find pdf version for free if you google enough. I never bought the book, I use library as well as pdf boook I found on online.
Profile Image for Alanna.
321 reviews
July 25, 2021
A super helpful guide! I learned a lot about when to eat, what to eat, and how to set myself up for success. Here are some of my key takeaways:
- 3-4 hours before exercising 60+ minutes, eat 400 calories
- big breakfasts are the key to success in life
- consume all the electrolytes, especially if you’re a sweaty Betty
- don’t label food as “bad” just remember to eat in moderation
- when doing intense exercise for more than an hour (running, mountaineering, etc.) eat 100 calories per hour
- remember to set yourself up for success when exercising in the heat by hydrating a ton during the day
Profile Image for Tarek.
7 reviews1 follower
February 4, 2018
Excellent and inspiring read about happy and effective eating

This book provides suggestions that will help you sustain a healthy and enjoyable diet . It works well for athletes, people who want to lose weight, and the ones who want to gain weight. It promotes intuitive eating , choosing the right healthy food , but not depriving oneself completely of food that makes you happy , etc ...

The author gives practical plans for how to eat, when to eat, what to eat , and most importantly ideas for healthy and tasty food
Profile Image for Morgan McGehee.
75 reviews1 follower
July 2, 2022
Apart from the cheesy (90s-esque) cover and partially outdated content this book is one of the best compilations of nutrition information I have encountered! I came away with both reinforced knowledge and fresh takeaways. The first section is a helpful starting point for anyone wanting to learn more about nutrition, while the remainder of the book gets into the nitty gritty of sports nutrition (which you can take or leave)! As a registered dietitian, Nancy Clark does a wonderful job of translating the scientific information into understandable recommendations.
Profile Image for Debbie.
74 reviews
January 17, 2022
Read the 2008 edition and found it very 'dated'. I read a bit of the 2019 edition, and felt I could probably better relate to it. I have been vegan for about 8 years and vegetarian 4 years prior to that. There are so many options available now for those of us choosing to eat plant-based, and the benefits, as an active 67 year old, are obvious for me. Hope I can get a copy of Ms. Clark's most recent edition.
Profile Image for Terri.
45 reviews2 followers
January 19, 2018
Outstanding reference for anyone who wants to eat healthier and should be required reading for all athletes and active adults. It should be on the curriculum of every sports academy out there. This book contains lots of common sense tips, scientific explanations that you can understand and low-cost recipies for getting the most out of your diet with REAL food, not processed, expensive junk.
Profile Image for Jana Viktoria.
334 reviews4 followers
December 24, 2020
Truly a solid nutrition book.

Most of it you will have heard before, but now you got the science to back it up.

And while either Ms Clarke is sponsored by Big Cereal (and chocolate milk) - or she is - like me - just a huge fan...

Doesn't matter.

I love how she makes eating (even for sports performance) simple again.

Food first. Real food.

And hey, have your cake, people?!
Profile Image for Playmate1985.
1 review
March 30, 2018
Great

Really great book. Definitely recommend for those who want to begin they journey into healthy lifestyle. It’s not too scientific but underlines value of balanced diet in sports
Profile Image for Soud Alebrahim .
21 reviews
November 27, 2021
This book have good information sequence, this not the best book i read of nutrition but its a good book with lots of information that will get you to know the basics of nutrition, and this book has lot of recipes that you can make in your kitchen, i recomend this book to you guys.
Profile Image for Hailey.
79 reviews
June 19, 2022
This probably needs a revised version, given this 3rd edition is about 20 years old. Still helpful information, laid out simply to explain to a wide audience. Definitely new science since this has been written...
132 reviews
July 30, 2019
As a person watching their carbs, this book made me rethink my daily intake of oatmeal, quinoa and brown rice. Still will pass on the breakfast cereal and orange juice.
Profile Image for Tom C..
168 reviews5 followers
September 5, 2020
Good stuff. A little preachy at times but I have to say this book helped me to one of my best endurance event races so far. Really. So on that basis alone it's 4 star material.
Profile Image for Hix.
25 reviews
January 10, 2021
fantastic sports nutrition evidenced based advice.
Profile Image for Chrabo.
15 reviews
April 5, 2021
Mnóstwo tu perełek typu: "Jedz mnóstwo warzyw! Przemycaj je do diety, gdy tylko możesz np. zamów pizzę z podwójnym sosem pomidorowym."
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