Bone mass and nutrient intake of female collegiate athletes by exercise type

Abstract

To prevent osteoporosis, it is essential to extend the peak bone mass of the growth period as well as to decrease the reasons risking bone. The nutrient intake and exercise are major factors determining the bone metabolism. Nutrient intake such as vitamin D, Ca and protein promotes bone formation and increase bone density. Ca intake in Korean young women have been known to be low. Especially, the vitamin D level are very low compared with those of other countries because of its low intake and use of sunlight blocking agent. Furthermore, high physical activity influence bone mass through increasing as well as stopping decrease of bone density. Also the type of exercise may affect bone mineral density. People performing only indoor exercise may be prone to have lower body vitamin D level, which can influence negatively bone health. The resistant exercise stimulates the increase of bone mineral density. This study was proposed to evaluate the bone mineral density of lumbar spine and femur and nutrient intake in young females by comparing the judo and Taekkun players with collegiate females. The BMD of L1, L2 and L3 was highest in judo players and higher BMD in both player groups compared to sedentary female. But the BMD of L4 and femur were highest in Taekkun players. The intake of energy, Ca and vitamin D intake were lower than KDRI in both players. The Ca and protein intake were higher in both player groups than sedentary group, but lower intakes of Se, Zn, vitamin D, folic acid, B1, B2. Although the association of BMD with intake of Ca, protein, vitamin D were shown in total subjects, among athletes, they wasn't appeared in any part of lumbar spine femur. Conclusively, the female players with high physical activity have higher BMD in lumbar spine and femur, although the essential nutrient intake for bone formation are low. The BMD showed differ by exercise type and body part.