Functional nutrition products such as protein shakes and electrolyte drinks are becoming a standard part of the diet for active Australians, according to new research from nutrition and food tracking app MyFitnessPal.

Performance drives food choices

The survey of 1011 Australians found more than two in five active respondents (42%) consider changing their nutrition to boost fitness performance.

Performance goals (23%) and convenience (12%) were among the biggest influences on food choices before/after training, while increasing energy levels (23%) was the leading motivator for dietary change.

Protein and carb intake rising

To support these training goals, respondents reported intentionally increasing their protein (67%) and carbohydrate (41%) intake.

They also reported consuming functional food or drink products to meet the increased intake, such as protein shakes (32%), electrolyte drinks (26%) and energy gels (18%), while fewer respondents (9%) rely on whole foods to meet the increased intake. 

Whole foods remain the foundation

Nutritionist and MyFitnessPal ambassador, Michaela Sparrow, says the findings reflect how Australians are taking a more intentional approach to performance nutrition.

“More Australians are becoming aware of the role nutrition plays in supporting energy, endurance and overall performance, and we’re seeing functional nutrition products become a more common part of active lifestyles,” she says.

“At the same time, whole foods remain an important foundation of overall health and performance nutrition.

“Functional products can be useful tools, but they work best as part of a balanced and varied diet.

“The body needs a broad range of nutrients to perform at its best.

“Tools like the MyFitnessPal app can help people better understand their nutrition intake, track their habits, and make more informed choices based on their individual health and fitness goals.”