Dietary Intake of Female Collegiate Volleyball Players

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the nutritional intake of female collegiate volleyball players to recommendations for performance and good health. These athletes had previously received information about the importance of good nutrition and suggestions for meeting dietary recommendations from their coach. METHODS: Nine female volleyball players at an NCAA Division II university, ages (mean±SD) 19.2±1.6 y, completed a three day food record on two practice days and one game day during the season. These food records were analyzed using Nutritionist Pro Nutrition Analysis Software for total energy, carbohydrate (CHO), fat, protein, and alcohol as well as calcium, iron, sodium, and fiber intake. The average of the three days was compared to recommendations for female athletes. RESULTS: Total energy (31.9±7.7 vs. 38 kcal·kg body weight-1, p<0.05) and CHO intake (4.3±1.3 vs. 6–10 g·kg-1, p<0.01) were lower than recommended. Total fat intake was higher (1.2±0.3 vs. 0.9 g·kg-1, p<0.05) while protein intake was similar to the recommendation (1.1±0.3 vs. 1.2-1.7g·kg-1, p=0.49). Iron (11.5±2.4vs. 18 mg, p<0.001), calcium (701.7±376.9 vs. 1000 mg, p<0.05), and fiber (8.9±2.2 vs. 25 g, p<0.001) intake were all significantly lower than recommended while sodium intake (3472±615 vs. <2400 mg, p<0.001) was significantly higher (p<0.001). Cholesterol intake (242±127mg) was not significantly different from the recommended intake of <300mg (p=0.21). None of the athletes reported consuming alcohol during the three days the records were kept. CONCLUSION: The results indicate that these athletes are not consuming adequate energy and carbohydrates but exceeding recommended fat intake. This could affect performance through low muscle glycogen levels and loss of body and muscle mass. Additionally, deficiencies in iron, calcium, and fiber intake and excessive sodium intake could have negative health effects. This suggests that the basic nutrition information provided by coaches may not be effective in promoting good dietary habits in female volleyball players.