6 Diet Secrets Of Olympic Athletes

Torino silver medalist in snowboard cross Lindsey Jacobellis puts the focus on protein and carbs. "You put your body through a lot on a training or competition day and you need the proper fuel to sustain and rebuild your muscles," she told Delish.

Meanwhile, biathlete Clare Egan is all about a mixture of carbs, fats, protein, and bonus carbs to sharpen her mental acuity. She said that finding all the right calories is a struggle for her, as well.

Figure skater Adam Rippon follows this rule too, telling NBC that his lunch often consists of eating chicken and rice.

Macronutrients — what percentages of protein, carbohydrates, and fat make up your diet — are ideally balanced by sports dietitians according to each athlete's individual needs.

Dr. Nanna Meyer has been a working group member of the International Olympic Committee Medical Commission and has worked in Olympic sports nutrition for the past 20 years. Dr. Meyer told US News and World Report that she recommends more protein for sprinters to help build muscle. Meanwhile, athletes who are long-distance competitors tend to require a higher level of carbohydrates for recovery after a session.

[Photo via @katiecouric]