Abstract
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world. As its number of players is increasing, the number of female players is also on the rise. However, there are limited data about how the diets of female soccer players should be designed. Thus, the aim of our work is to deliver concise nutritional recommendations for women practicing this sport. Based on a literature review, we emphasize that individual adjustment of the energy value of the diet is the key factor for the physical performance of female soccer players. Appropriate macronutrient intake makes it possible to achieve the proper energy value of the diet (5–10 g/kg body mass/day carbohydrates; 1.2–1.7 g/kg body mass/day proteins; <30% fats from energy). The micronutrients should be consumed in amounts corresponding to individual values recommended in national standards. Soccer players should pay special attention to the proper consumption of such micronutrients, as well as vitamins such as iron, calcium, and vitamin D. The right amount of fluid intake, consistent with the player’s needs, is crucial in maximizing exercise performance. The diet of a female practicing soccer is usually characterized with low energy values, which increases the risk of various health consequences related to low energy availability. Monitoring the diets of female soccer players is, therefore, necessary.
Highlights
An optimally balanced diet is one of the factors that positively influences athletic performance.An excess or deficiency of some nutrients may negatively affect sports results [1] and, when optimally adjusted, food rations can ensure maximum body efficiency during training and competition [2].Many studies have shown that a well-balanced nutritional strategy supports performance in sporting activities [3]
2000–2006, the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) estimated that the number of active soccer players increased by 9%, while the number of active female soccer players over this period increased by 19% [4]
The aim of our work is to provide concise knowledge and recommendations for female soccer players which can be used by healthcare specialists and soccer trainers, the use of which should maximize the effects of training, increase the chance of achieving sports success, reduce the likelihood of injury, and support the process of post-workout regeneration
Summary
An optimally balanced diet is one of the factors that positively influences athletic performance. Many studies have shown that a well-balanced nutritional strategy supports performance in (and recovery from) sporting activities [3]. There is a reasonable need to specify dietary recommendations for particular athlete groups to maximize the benefits achieved by training, as well as to increase the chance of success during official competitions. Among many studies on the nutritional aspects of football players, very few have involved women. There has been little research into the diets of and dietary recommendations for female soccer players. The aim of our work is to provide concise knowledge and recommendations for female soccer players which can be used by healthcare specialists and soccer trainers, the use of which should maximize the effects of training, increase the chance of achieving sports success, reduce the likelihood of injury, and support the process of post-workout regeneration
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