Valoración nutricional de los hábitos alimentarios en jóvenes esgrimistas de competición

Abstract

Introduction and objectivesAlthough the nutritional requirements and somatic profile of the elite fencer have been described, this information is lacking in young fencers. The aim of the present study was two-fold: firstly, to describe the kinanthropometric profile of a group of young competitive fencers and, secondly, to assess their nutritional habits. MethodologyThe present observational, descriptive study classified the variables analyzed into two categories: a) nutritional assessment (24h recording): total energy, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, fiber, cholesterol, dietary water content, vitamins and minerals; b) kinanthropometric assessment: height, weight, somatotype, and body composition. ResultsTotal energy intake was above recommended levels in 26.3% of the group and below these levels in 57.9%. Carbohydrate intake was lower than recommended, whereas protein and lipid intake was higher. Intake of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats was below recommended levels in 89.5% and 63.2% of young fencers, respectively. Saturated fat intake was higher than recommended intake in 89.5% of the fencers. Fiber consumption was deficient in 52.6% of the fencers. In contrast, cholesterol intake was higher than recommended consumption in 73.7%. Vitamin intake was in line with recommended levels but intake of some minerals was deficient. Both sexes were remarkably heterogeneous in somatic profile. ConclusionsNutritional habits in most of the young fencers analyzed were unsuitable both to maintain a state of health and to practice sport. These habits should be corrected through proper education and nutritional follow-up with further interventions to optimize sports performance. The kinanthropometric assessment confirms these results.