Dietary Adequacy of Macro and Micronutrients in National Level Indian Male Sprinters

Abstract

Proper balance of nutrients is crucial for athletes to maintain a good nutritional profile and optimize sports performance. The aim of the study was to evaluate nutrient intake and adequacy among Indian sprinters among various age groups. Cross-sectional study on Indian male National level sprinters (n=80) was carried out. Height, weight, dietary practices, and nutrient intake were collected. Mean weight, height and BMI were 59.3±2.8 kg, 170.3±2.6 cm, and 20.5±1.6 kg/m2 respectively. Mean daily energy, carbohydrate, and protein intake per kg BM was 51±20 kcal; 7.56g and1.83±0.9g respectively and 24.89% came from fat. Nutrient Adequacy Ratio values reveal adequacy of vitamin A, B-complex vitamins, ascorbic acid, magnesium, calcium, zinc, and iron. Macro and micronutrient intake was significantly close to recommendations except for vitamin D in 10-12 years while in 13-15 years, protein, niacin, zinc, and pyridoxine were comparable and 16-17 years had a maximum deviation from recommendations. Nutrients (carbohydrate, protein, iron, zinc, and thiamine) were close to the recommendation in the 18+ group. Inter-individual variability in macro and micronutrient intake highlights the need for a well balanced, healthy meal plan from a sports nutritionist for tailor-made diets to suit training load to optimize performance.