Last year, sports medicine providers at UAB partnered with Bama Wellness Advocacy to launch a nutrition program for athletes in Birmingham City Schools, aiming to enhance the performance and well-being of student-athletes.

The pilot program began with the basketball teams at Ramsey and Huffman High Schools, and has been expanded to serve four of the city’s football programs, six of its basketball programs and some of the springs sports teams across Birmingham City Schools.

With registered dietitian, athletes can get counseling on topics like weight loss and weight gain, education about eating disorders, and dietary recommendations for athletic performance.

“These young athletes are catalysts for change in their communities, specifically when it comes to prioritizing their health,” said James Jones, head athletic trainer for the UAB Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Birmingham City Schools. “Their impetus for change has already influenced their family and community members to take steps to protect their health, and we hope that impact continues to expand as we grow this program.”