(HealthDay News) -- Eating the right balance of nutritious foods can improve athletic performance, whether you're an elite athlete or just enjoy sports and exercise on a regular basis.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics lists these benefits of a healthy diet for athletes:

• Improved cardiovascular health, including better blood flow, delivery of oxygen and blood pressure.
• Improved respiratory function.
• A stronger immune system.
• Stronger bones and muscles.
• Improved metabolism to keep your body burning calories.