An assessment of diet among high – rank professional judo athletes

Abstract

Judo is one of the speed and power sport disciplines in which short bouts of high-power exercise occur but which also require high aerobic capacity that determines a higher economisation of work [1]. A rational model of nutrition, based on a varied and balanced diet, makes it easier for athletes to meet the increased requirements for energy, the building blocks and regulatory components, including vitamins and minerals. A correct diet is one of the most important factors that affect exercise capabilities, optimise training outcomes and increase the likelihood of sport success [2,3]. The widespread use of food supplements and foodstuffs intended for particular nutritional uses by athletes should also be taken into account in their nutrient intake sheet. Many authors point out that food supplements are very commonly used by athletes [4,5,6]. The available literature provides very little data on the assess ment of diet among high-level professional judo athletes. The aim of the study was to assess the energy value and the intakes of nutrients, minerals, vitamins, dietary fibre and water in daily food rations including and excluding supplements among male judo athletes.