ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY AS WELL AS VITAMIN C AND POLYPHENOL CONTENT IN THE DIET FOR ATHLETES

Abstract

The aim of the study was to analytically evaluate the total content of vitamin C and polyphenols as well as the antioxidant potential of daily food rations planned for athletes. Chemical analyses showed that an average food ration for women (2,120.1 kcal, 90.8 g protein, 53.1 g fat and 354.0 g carbohydrates) contained 5.5±2.6 mg vitamin C and 20.1±4.1 mg polyphenols in 100 g fresh mass. An average food ration for men (2,648.8 kcal, 112.5 g protein, 63.1 g fat and 447.4 g carbohydrates) contained 5.6±1.4 mg vitamin C and 22.9±8.1 mg polyphenols in 100 g fresh mass. The antioxidant potential of an average ration for women expressed as reducing power (FRAP index) in 100 g fresh mass was 8.2±0.7 mmol Fe+2, and for men, 8.9 ±0.9 mmol Fe+2. The antioxidant potential of an average ration prepared for women and men expressed as antiradical activity against DPPH in 100 g fresh mass was respectively: 2.7±02 mmol and 2.7±0.4 mmol Trolox equivalent. Balanced food rations rich in products with high nutrient density can ensure the appropriate intake of vitamin C and polyphenols and high antioxidant potential of the diet.