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Abstract
Healthy nutrition and maintaining a normal body weight are very important for reducing the risk of various diseases not only among the general population, but also among athletes, especially combat sport athletes. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of rapid weight loss (RWL) and to indicate eventual dietary inadequacies among professional martial arts practitioners. Sixty-two male athletes (aged: 23 ± 4) completed a questionnaire (i.e., frequency of food group consumption, questions about training and RWL) and single 24-h dietary recall. This study confirmed the high prevalence of RWL in athletes (58%) for two to three days before the competition, which allowed for reduction of 3.4 ± 1.0 kg (4.3 ± 1.5%) of their body weight. Many dietary inaccuracies were found such as: lower than recommended by nutrition experts, level of consumption of dairy products, grain products, fruit, and vegetables, and insufficient intake of energy, carbohydrates, minerals (especially iodine, potassium, calcium) and vitamins (especially D, folate, C, E) during the training day. Adequate nutrition is a natural support for the whole training process, and may allow for regulation of body weight in a longer period and in a safer manner; thus, there is a need for nutrition education dedicated to athletes and their trainers.
Highlights
The process of training, as well as genetic factors, adequate nutrition, and hydration are crucial for achieving the best results in sports
Athletes participated in the competition of nationwide rank at least once, and 39% of athletes belonged to the National Team
This study confirmed the high prevalence of rapid weight loss (RWL) in combat sports athletes for two to three days before the competition and many dietary and nutritional inadequacies
Summary
The process of training, as well as genetic factors, adequate nutrition, and hydration are crucial for achieving the best results in sports. A well-balanced diet should meet the athlete’s energy, macroand micro-nutrient requirements, and may significantly influence his or her success, because it affects the exercise capacity, and supports the recovery, optimizing the whole training process [1,2]. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Dietitians of Canada, and the American. College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) provided guideline to promote optimal health and performance across different scenarios of training and competitive sport, including the appropriate type, amount, and timing of intake of food, fluids, and supplements [2]. All general dietary recommendations should be fine-tuned with individual consideration especially of total energy needs, specific training needs. Athletes should be referred to a registered dietitian for a well-chosen nutrition strategy and personalized nutrition plan [2]
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