Sports Nutrition in Collegiate Athletes

Abstract

2369 PURPOSE: The purpose of this survey was to determine the nutritional knowledge, beliefs, and practices of collegiate athletes and to assess the need for a sports nutritionist at a Division I university in the Southeast. METHODS: A selfadministered anonymous nutrition survey was completed by 243 division I college athletes. Questions addressed sources of nutrition information, nutrition knowledge, and nutrition and weight management practices. Differences between genders and those who had received nutritional information were detected using chi-square tests and t-tests. RESULTS: Less than 40% of athletes surveyed reported receiving nutritional information before college. A potentially reputable source was chosen, by over 60% of both males and females, as the individual who had taught them the most about nutritionFinearly 99% of the athletes were found to have poor nutrition knowledge. Traditional nutrition plans were highly prevalent (over 68%). The majority of athletes reported consuming less than 3 servings of fruits or vegetables per day and 40% of female athletes reported consuming less than 2000 calories/day. Over 70% of female athletes reported they were currently trying to lose weight, while most male athletes were interested in weight gain or weight maintenance. Female athletes were more likely to report that a coach and/or trainer had suggested they lose weight. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the fact that most athletes report receiving nutritional information after starting college, athlete's current nutrition knowledge and practices are suboptimal. Additionally, athletes are engaging in troublesome and potentially harmful weight management practices (i.e. increased protein intake, skipping meals, supplement usage). Athletes recognize the role of good nutrition and are interested in learning more about proper sports nutrition. Coaches, athletic trainers, and team physicians, with proper training and resources, can work together with a sports nutritionist to ensure that collegiate athletes adopt more healthy and effective nutritional practices.