Fueling the Bengals

Both are in the College of Allied Health Sciences’ Accelerated Dietitian Nutritionist program, a combined bachelor's and master's program that streamlines the path to becoming a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN). During this year’s training camp, they worked full-time in the team’s facility under the supervision of the dietetic and athletic training staff. 

“Having two students interning with the Bengals is a remarkable opportunity for UC and its dietetics program,” said John Pantel, assistant professor and director of clinical education for dietetics.

Both students said they’ve gotten a lot of hands-on experience. While the players were on the practice field, the interns dropped off snacks at their lockers. They also stocked the facility’s fuel station. It’s a place where players can find grab-and-go snacks — but these are not just any snacks.

“It’s not a gas station. It’s a fuel station,” said Christian with a laugh. The players’ snacks are selected with nutrients in mind: a balance of carbohydrates, proteins and electrolytes.

Because the Bengals practice outdoors on some of the hottest days of the summer, one of Bonno and Christian’s responsibilities was hydration testing, which involves touching a test strip to a player’s tongue and then using a handheld device connected to a smartphone to determine the result.

“It’s been really cool to see the process,” said Bonno. “Some of the players have sought us out for testing to make sure they are rehydrated post-practice."

Both interns have also made electrolyte slushies for players to help with rehydration, along with preparing collagen supplements, considered crucial for joint and bone health, injury prevention, enhanced endurance, and muscle recovery.

Bonno and Christian have also been assisting with plate coaching. “At times, players are looking to us for guidance on what to choose to eat for lunch,” said Bonno. 

Both Bonno and Christian credited their UC connections for this opportunity. They spent more than two years working with the UC football team and helped student-athletes by offering nutrition counseling and tips on how to improve their performance, gain muscle mass and work on their cooking skills. 

“We were able to make an impact on players’ lives by showing them that nutrition can up their game,” said Christian.

They worked under the guidance of the Bearcats’ dietitian, Micaela Stingley, who is associate director of performance nutrition for UC Athletics. “She has been a role model and a leader,” said Christian. “We built trust with her and are thankful for the opportunities that have been created.”

One of those opportunities is their internship with the Bengals.

“Micaela gave us so much experience,” said Bonno. “She taught us how to approach and interact with athletes and discuss nutrition.” It was a skill they needed as they brushed shoulders with famous Bengals players, who Bonno said have all been pleasant and professional.

“The guys are there to do their jobs,” she said. 

Students in UC’s Accelerated Dietitian Nutritionist program complete more than 1,000 hours of rotations in four areas: clinical, food service management, community and specialty.

For both Bonno and Christian, food service management rotations are next. Bonno will work at Cincinnati VA Medical Center, and Christian will be at LaSoupe. Both will complete their clinical rotations in the spring at UC Medical Center.

Featured image at top: Megan Christian and Tori Bonno on the field at Paycor Stadium. Photo/Provided.