ÜNİDES Success for the Nutrition in Health Protection Club

The project prepared by the Istinye University Nutrition in Health Protection Club has been selected for support under the University Student Communities Cooperation and Support Program (ÜNİDES), carried out by the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Within the scope of the ÜNİDES 2025–2026 Academic Year 6th Term, the project will host the "1st National Congress on Current Approaches, Research, and Applications in Sports Nutrition."

The congress aims to bring together undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students, as well as practicing dietitians, to enhance scientific knowledge sharing and strengthen professional capacity in the field of sports nutrition.

Current Trends and Practices in Sports Nutrition

Throughout the congress, a wide range of contemporary topics in sports nutrition will be addressed with the participation of academics, sports physicians, coaches, and elite athletes. Key subjects such as energy systems, macro and micronutrients, hydration strategies, ergogenic aids, and pre- and post-competition nutritional practices will be evaluated through both theoretical and practical sessions.

The program will also feature scientific oral presentations, poster sessions, and hands-on workshops. This structure will provide participants with access to academic knowledge while offering opportunities to gain practical professional experience.

A Scientific Platform Bridging Academia and Students

By integrating recent developments in nutrition and dietetics with expert opinions and practical training, the congress aims to create a comprehensive scientific platform. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the knowledge and experience gained are effectively utilized in professional life, contributing to the development of qualified health professionals who support athlete health.

The project is mentored by Prof. Dr. Funda Elmacıoğlu, Head of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Istinye University, and led by Ahmet Serhat Afşar, a graduate student in the same department.

Through this congress, participants are expected to improve their professional competencies via a holistic presentation of theoretical and practical content. Furthermore, the initiative aims to encourage researchers and students toward scientific productivity and academic projects, while strengthening multidisciplinary collaborations that support national-level knowledge exchange.