In February 1991 a group of leading international scientists met in Switzerland under the patronage of the Medical Commission of the International Olympic Committee. Their task was to review the current state of knowledge on the role of nutrition in improving sports performance and produce a "Consensus Statement". This book includes all the papers presented at the meeting, revised to take account of the points made during discussions, and the Consensus Statement itself. The topics covered include recommendations for optimum carbohydrate, protein, fat, total energy, fluid and electrolyte, and vitamin and mineral intakes to maximise sports performance. Although the primary focus centres on optimum intakes for the competitive athlete, the recommendations may be applicable to the recreational athlete as well. All those professionally involved in sports science and sports medicine will find this unique volume an essential reference. For students of sport and physical education the book will be particularly valuable since it provides a truly international, expert assessment of a key factor in determining athletic performance.