Under-Reporting of Energy Intake by Elite Female Gymnasts

Abstract

The degree of under-reporting of energy intake by elite, female gymnasts was assessed using the standards established by Goldberg et al (1991). 28 female g\\Tiinasts from the US national artistic gymnastics team completed the 3-day food records during their training period. The degree of under-reporting was determined using the ratio of reported energy intake (El) to predicted basal metabolic rate (BMRestd). An El/BMRestd ratio of <1.4 was classified as under-reporting. Based on the EI/BMRestd ratio, 61% of these gymnasts were classified as wider-reporters (i.e. low energy reporters). The low energy reporters had significantly higher percent body fat and BMI than the high energy reporters (13% vs. 11%, p<0.006; 21 vs. 19, p<0.042, respectively). The low energy reporters had significantly lower energy intake than the high energy reporters (1306 kcals vs. 2209 kcals, p<0.0005). Likewise, the low energy reporters had significantly lower intakes of vitamin A, thiamin, riboflavin. iron and calcium, compared to the high energy reporters. These results suggest that under-reporting of dietary intake by elite athletes may be occurring, and can have a significant impact on the assessment of macro and micro nutrient intakes. Therefore, dietary assessment methodologies should be enhanced to improve the accuracy of the reported intake data. This can be achieved by using various techniques, including the multiple-pass method to facilitate memory for foods consumed, and educating patients/clients about portion size estimations.