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Gluten-Free Diet and Sports: What to Know for Performance

How to plan sports nutrition when following a gluten-free diet, covering carbohydrates, supplementation and practical ideas.

DER

Dott.ssa Elena Rossi

Nutritionist & biologist

27 February 2026 2 min read
Table of contents

Key takeaways

  • Rice, quinoa, buckwheat and sweet potatoes are ideal complex carbs for pre-race fueling and recovery.
  • An unbalanced gluten-free diet can be low in fiber and iron: vary the whole grains you eat.
  • Many energy bars use gluten as a thickener: always choose certified products.
  • Periodically monitor iron, vitamin D and B vitamins with your doctor or nutritionist.

Gluten-free carbohydrates for energy

Rice, quinoa, buckwheat and sweet potatoes are excellent sources of complex carbohydrates, perfect for pre-race fueling and post-workout recovery.

Watch out for nutritional gaps

A poorly balanced gluten-free diet can be low in fiber and iron: it's important to vary the whole gluten-free grains available and periodically monitor blood values.

Supplementation and safe bars

Many energy bars contain gluten as a thickener: always choosing certified products avoids unpleasant surprises during races and intense training.

DER

Dott.ssa Elena Rossi

Nutritionist & biologist

Nutritionist and biologist specializing in food intolerances, writing evidence-based guides for Mappa Senza Glutine on celiac disease, nutrition and health.

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Frequently asked questions

Not necessarily, but it's useful to monitor iron, vitamin D and B vitamins with your doctor or nutritionist.

Looking for a safe place near you?

Discover our directory of certified restaurants, shops and hotels for an easier gluten-free life.

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Comments (2)

P

Paolo N. 27 February 2026

Extremely useful, sharing it in the support group I follow.

I

Ilaria C. 27 February 2026

Finally an explanation without too much jargon, well done.