Dietary and Biochemical Profile of Congolese Athletes in Endurance Races during International Competition

Abstract

Biochemical parameters are useful in the diagnosis of many health abnormalities in athletes. Some studies suggest training well and eating a balanced diet to improve performance. The modification of biochemical parameters during endurance races has not yet been studied in many African countries. Our objective was to evaluate the dietary profile and the effects of competition on the biochemical parameters of Congolese endurance athletes. The method used was the questionnaire for the food profile and blood samples were taken to measure the biochemical parameters of the athletes. A total of 64 athletes, i.e. 20 girls and 44 boys divided into two groups (group 1 or experimental group (EG), 32 endurance athletes and group 2 or control group (CG), 32 walkers who participated in a cross-sectional study in Brazzaville. The subjects were respectively 26.16 ± 2.79 years old for the EG and 27.44 ± 3.34 years old for the CG. The results indicated that quality foods were difficult to access. The main course was more consumed compared to the starter and dessert (60% of girls and 63.63 of boys). However, biochemical parameters showed a significantly lower serum creatinine concentration in EG subjects compared to CG subjects (0.86 ± 0.06 mg/dl vs 1.04 ± 0.16 mg/dl; t = ?5.95; p 0.05). Similarly, Total Cholesterol was significantly low (1.66 ± 0.34 g/l vs 2.09 ± 0.50 g/l; t = ?3.99; p < 0.000). Cholesterol concentrations of EG subjects (HDL-C) were significantly elevated (0.98 ± 0.49 g/l vs 0.48 ± 0.18 g/l; t = 5.34; p < 0.000). In conclusion, the biochemical data were normal but the food profile of the runners was unfavorable, inadequate and unbalanced. This is considered to be a performance limiting factor.