Sports Nutrition Research Articles

Greater Post-Operative Nutrition Risks Identified in Pediatric and Adolescent Patients after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Regardless of Age and Sex.

Systematic detection of risky nutrition behaviors after sports surgery may better promote healing for return-to-sport. The purpose of this study was to assess nutritional behavior differences between patients following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and following other lower-extremity orthopedic surgeries. One pediatric sports medicine center was reviewed for a custom Sports Nutrition Assessment for Consultation, which investigates nutrition-related risk factors for youth athletes at their first post-operative visit. Patients reported "Yes" or "No" to eight questions, after which they were offered a nutrition consultation for any response indicating risk. A total of 243 post-ACLR and 242 non-ACLR patients were reviewed. The post-ACLR patients more often reported a change in appetite (p = 0.021), recent weight changes (p = 0.011), a desire to better understand nutrition (p = 0.004), and recommendations to change their body composition (p = 0.032). More post-ACLR patients were identified for a nutrition consultation (p = 0.002), though an equal percentage accepted the consultation between groups. Age and sex were not determined to be significant confounders after matched sub-analysis. The post-ACLR patients more often reported nutrition risks, specifically weight-related issues, regardless of age or sex. Sports surgeons should regularly inquire about nutrition-related concerns with patients and refer to sports dietitians for recovery nutrition support as needed, particularly after ACLR.

Accuracy of a continuous glucose monitoring system applied before, during, and after an intense leg-squat session with low- and high-carbohydrate availability in young adults without diabetes.

The aim was to assess the accuracy of a continuous blood glucose monitoring (CGM) device (Abbott FreeStyle Libre 3) against capillary blood glucose measurement (BGM) before, during, and after an intense lower body strength training session in connection with high- versus low-carbohydrate breakfasts. Nine adults (22 ± 2 years) completed a strength training session (10 × 10 at 60% 1RM) twice after high-carbohydrate and twice after low-carbohydrate breakfasts. CGM accuracy versus BGM was assessed across four phases: post-breakfast, pre-exercise, exercise, and post-exercise. Overall fed state mean BGM levels were 84.4 ± 20.6mg/dL. Group-level Bland-Altman analysis showed acceptable agreement between CGM and BGM across all phases, with mean biases between -7.95 and -17.83mg/dL; the largest discrepancy was in the post-exercise phase. Mean absolute relative difference was significantly higher post-exercise compared to pre-exercise and exercise phases, for overall data and after the high-carbohydrate breakfast (all p ≤ 0.02). Clark Error Grid analysis showed 50.5-64.3% in Zone A and 31.7-44.6% in Zone B, with an increase in treatment errors during and after exercise. In this group of healthy participants undergoing strength training, CGM showed satisfactory accuracy in glucose monitoring but varied substantially between individuals compared to BGM and fails in meeting clinical criteria for diabetic monitoring. CGM could aid non-diabetic athletes by tracking glucose fluctuations due to diet and exercise. Although utilization of CGM shows potential in gathering, analyzing, and interpreting interstitial glucose for improving performance, the application in sports nutrition is not yet validated, and challenges in data interpretation could limit its adoption.

Organic Food in Athletes Diet-Narrative Review of Alternative Products in Sports Nutrition.

Athletes are characterized by special nutritional needs. Meeting their dietary needs associated with intensive exercise is a prerequisite for effective training and success in sports competitions. Hence, it is important to supply key performance nutrients, such as macronutrients, antioxidants, calcium, vitamin D, or iron, in adequate quantities. The increased need for these nutrients makes it necessary to look for food products on the market that more fully cover these needs. Such products may include organic foods. According to research, they have unique properties and are richer in selected nutrients, such as antioxidants. Hence, the aim of this review was to analyze the available literature as to whether organic foods have the potential to more fully cover the increased nutritional requirements of athletes for selected nutrients compared to conventionally produced foods. A narrative review of current literature was carried out. As the analysis showed, organic foods are characterized by a higher content of antioxidant bioactive compounds, a higher content of n-3 fatty acids, a better n:3/n:6 ratio, and a more optimal amino acid composition, which may result in an appropriate dietary ration design for athletes. In conclusion, organic food appears to be an interesting alternative to meet the special nutritional needs of professional and amateur athletes.

Performance with Purpose: A Review on the Role of Sustainable Marketing in Sports Nutrition.

The research emphasizes the alignment of marketing strategies with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly through promoting sustainable agriculture, health benefits, consumer education, and local and seasonal eating. Despite challenges such as economic disparities and cultural differences, technological advancements and collaborative efforts among stakeholders offer opportunities to enhance sustainable food marketing. The paper concludes that integrating sustainability, health, and environmental awareness into food marketing is crucial for promoting better consumer choices and advancing global sustainability goals. By understanding regional behaviors and leveraging technology, marketers can effectively drive demand for sustainable and healthy sports nutrition products, contributing to a more sustainable food system and improved public health outcomes.

Sex and gender in sports nutrition research: bridging the gap.

The Olympic Games have grown to be the largest, gender-equal sporting event in the world, and the International Olympic Committee is committed to gender equality in sports encouraging and supporting the promotion of women in sports at all levels and in all structures with a view to implementing the principle of equality of men and women (IOC, 2023). Women competed for the first time at the 1900 Olympic Games in Paris, and the number of women competing has grown exponentially over the last 100 years, so an estimated 5494 female athletes (48 %) competed in the Summer Olympic Games 2021 in Tokyo. Supporting women (alongside men) in achieving optimum performance is crucial, and understanding that there are sex and gender gaps in sports nutrition research is important. One reason for this gap is the historical bias in sports and exercise science research towards male participants. This has led to a poor understanding of the unique physiological and nutritional needs of female athletes. In summary, a balanced approach is crucial to address the nutritional needs of both male and female athletes. Researchers should continue exploring this important area to optimise performance and health for all athletes. The aim of this review is to summarise current sports nutrition literature and highlight research that seeks to understand and address where the gaps are with respect to several key areas in sports nutrition recommendations that can impact advice and practice with both males and females.

Ultrasound‐assisted extraction of yerba mate leaves for the development of active additives in sports nutrition products

AbstractThis study aimed to develop yerba mate extracts (YME, Ilex paraguariensis) as active ingredients for a UVC‐light‐preserved (892 mJ/cm2; 50°C) sports drink (SD) and the sports gel derived from it (SG). Aqueous ultrasound‐assisted extractions (US; 20 KHz, 750 W) of yerba mate leaves were performed at varying temperatures (T: 20, 40, and 50 °C) and acoustic energy densities (AED: 0, .11, and .23 W/mL). Total polyphenol (TPC) extraction kinetics were characterized using the Spiro and Jago, Linares, and Peleg models. The Spiro and Jago model accurately described the extraction kinetic curves. An empirical correlation was found between its rate constant and the variables T and AED, reaching its maximum value at 50°C–.23 W/mL, with no further TPC extraction beyond 4 minutes (4.20 g GAE/L). For comparison purposes, the conditions 20°C/.23 W/mL/7 min (3.33 g GAE/L) and 100°C/0 W/mL/5 min (control) were also structurally and physiochemically compared. During the extraction, intraparticle diffusion was one of the major mechanisms limiting the extraction rate. With AED and T, the intraparticle coefficient increased significantly. The US‐assisted process generated extracts with greater wettability, hygroscopicity, more natural color, and similar content of relevant xanthin alkaloids and polyphenols, compared to the control. SEM micrographs revealed that the US‐assisted extract's porosity increased with AED and T. The UV‐C processing of SD was successfully validated through microbial challenge assays. YME (20°C/.23 W/mL/7 min) addition turned SD and SG greener and raised their flavonoid content (SD: 5.2‐fold and SG: 19.6‐fold) and TPC (SD: 5.5‐fold and SG: 5.3‐fold). The DPPH and ABTS total antioxidant activity for SD and SG increased by 3.1–3.4‐fold and 16.8–57.9‐fold, respectively. SD‐YM and SG‐YM were well‐accepted and described in a consumer field test. The developed YMEs can be a natural source of xanthine alkaloids and polyphenols, thereby replacing the synthetic additives typically employed in sports nutrition products.Practical applicationsThe growing consumer belief in natural extracts' ability to promote health and wellness is driving the global market for botanical extracts. Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis St Hill) is a healthier alternative to coffee and tea, with higher antioxidant capacity and proven health benefits. The proposed extraction method eliminates the need for high temperature and prolonged treatments, preserving the nutritional value of yerba mate leaves. Furthermore, it eliminates waste generation, perfectly aligning with sustainable practices. The optimized US‐assisted extraction resulted in high‐quality physicochemical extracts with significant functional activity. Amateur athletes are increasingly looking for products to enhance their performance that are both natural and effective. In this context, the developed extracts can serve as natural additives for sports nutrition products, which typically include synthetic caffeine and other compounds aimed at enhancing alertness, arousal, and energy.

Sports nutrition through the lens of the strength & conditioning coach

Sports nutrition through the lens of the strength & conditioning coach

An academic cooperation between the Japan Sports Nutrition Association (JSNA) and the Korean Society for Exercise Nutrition (KSEN).

The Japan Sports Nutrition Association (JSNA) is an academic society that aims to contribute to people's health and the development of sports in Japan. After numerous communication and academic events, the JSNA and the Korean Society for Exercise Nutrition (KSEN) exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2018. Based on the MoU, the JSNA and KSEN organized academic exchange events until the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic and subsequent travel restrictions and lockdowns. After four years of the pandemic and the downgrading of Coronavirus Disease 2019 infection risk, it is hoped that academic exchanges between the societies will resume gradually and enhance members' recognition of the cooperation between the JSNA and KSEN for active collaborations in the future.

Unveiling a Novel Frontier: Exploring Creatine Applications in Diabetes Management

In the dynamic realm of diabetes management, the quest for innovative strategies continually evolves. This article embarks on an exploration of a groundbreaking frontier, introducing a new approach that extends beyond conventional paradigms. We delve into the intriguing intersection of creatine applications and diabetes care, unveiling a novel perspective that holds potential to redefine how we approach the multifaceted challenges posed by this metabolic condition. Traditionally renowned for its role in enhancing muscular energy metabolism, creatine has emerged from the realms of sports nutrition to captivate the attention of researchers and practitioners alike in the field of diabetes management. This paradigm shift invites us to reconsider the scope of creatine supplementation, moving beyond its established association with athletic performance to explore its nuanced impact on glucose regulation and insulin sensitivity in individuals grappling with diabetes. As we navigate this uncharted territory, this article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the intricate interplay between creatine and diabetes, weaving together current research findings, emerging treatment trends, and the potential synergies that could shape the future of diabetes care. From the molecular intricacies of energy metabolism to the broader landscape of contemporary diabetes treatments, our exploration seeks to illuminate a path towards a more holistic and personalized approach to diabetes management.

Research Progress of Creatine Sports Nutrition Supplements on Improving the Physical Fitness of Athletes

Research Progress of Creatine Sports Nutrition Supplements on Improving the Physical Fitness of Athletes

The Role of Omega 3 Fatty Acids on Muscle Mass: A Literature Review

Omega 3 fatty acids are known to have many benefits for human health, such as regulating lipid metabolism, treating hyperlipidemia, having anti-inflammatory function, increasing brain function and maintaining the body's immune system. Nowadays, among individuals who like to exercise, especially in the field of sports nutrition, omega 3 fatty acids are starting to become popular in their function of maintaining and increasing muscle mass because of their benefits in increasing muscle protein synthesis, reducing muscle damage (exercise-induced muscle damage) after physical exercise or during recovery after exercise so that it can maintain and increase muscle mass. This literature review deepens the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids which can potentially maintain or increase muscle mass. This literature review will discuss the mechanism by which omega 3 fatty acids influence muscle mass through cellular signaling pathways related to muscle protein synthesis which has an impact on a person's muscle mass. This literature review also discusses research results in healthy individuals, the elderly and individuals with chronic ilness. Although several studies show the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids regarding their potential to maintain and increase muscle mass. However, several research results show an insignificant effect of omega 3 fatty acids on muscle mass, causing the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids on muscle mass to continue to be a topic that will continue to be researched, some of the causes may be due to the duration of administration, different doses of administration, different type of omega 3 fatty acids given.

Translation and Validation of the Nutrition for Sport Knowledge Questionnaire in Brazil (NSKQ-BR).

This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate "The Nutrition for Sport Knowledge Questionnaire (NSKQ)" for Brazilian athletes. The NSKQ is an Australian instrument composed of 87 questions divided into six subsections (weight control, macronutrients, micronutrients, sports nutrition, supplementation, and alcohol) designed to assess the nutritional knowledge (NK) of athletes. The translation process followed the recommendations of the World Health Organization for translating and adapting instruments. Semantic validation involved a panel of specialists (n = 21), followed by an assessment performed by a group of adult Brazilian athletes from various sports (n = 17). The reproducibility and internal consistency of the questionnaire were evaluated via a test-retest approach in a sample of adult Brazilian athletes (n = 29) from diverse sports, who completed the Brazilian version of the NSKQ (NSKQ-BR). Overall, the NSKQ-BR presented good internal consistency (α = 0.95) and reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.85). The factors "sports nutrition" and "alcohol" showed moderate reproducibility (ICC = 0.74 (0.46-0.88) and ICC = 0.68 (0.33-0.85), respectively). Most athletes (n = 17; 58.6%) presented a medium NK score (50-65%). The NSKQ-BR is available to evaluate the NK levels of Brazilian athletes. The NSKQ-BR presented high internal consistency and reproducibility, validating its applicability among adult athletes across diverse sports.

Trends in Nutrition-Related Risk Factors Identified Post-Operatively in Patients Treated for a Lower-Extremity Injury.

This study investigated trends within a custom Sports Nutrition Assessment for Consultation (SNAC) survey designed to identify nutrition-related risk factors among post-operative lower-extremity youth athletes. Athletes aged 8-18 years who completed the SNAC at a sports medicine institution after lower-extremity surgery were reviewed for associations between SNAC questions and age/sex differences. Of 477 patients (15.0 ± 2.0 years; 47.8% female), 319 (66.9%) answered 'yes' to at least one question and were identified for a consult, though 216 (64.3%) declined. The most frequent questions to prompt a consult were a desire to better understand nutrition for recovery (41.5%) and regularly skipping at least one meal a day (29.8%). Inter-question responses were often significantly related, especially regarding appetite changes, weight changes, and/or meal-skipping. While consult acceptance was not significantly different between sex/age, males were more likely to report a desire to better understand nutrition (p = 0.004) and a weight change (p = 0.019), and females were more likely to report struggling with dizziness/fatigue (p < 0.001). Additionally, older athletes reported an appetite change (p = 0.022), meal-skipping (p = 0.002), a desire to better understand nutrition (p < 0.001), a weight change (p < 0.001), and an effort/recommendation to change their body composition/weight (p = 0.005). These findings demonstrate a link between risky nutrition behaviors and physical detriments.

Differences in perceived energy and macronutrient requirements across divisions in NCAA athletes.

Sports nutrition is an impactful component to sports performance. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the sports nutrition knowledge of National Collegiate Athletic Association collegiate athletes and assess self-reported perceived requirements for energy and macronutrient intake. A secondary aim was to evaluate the awareness of physical and emotional perceptions associated with mindful eating. Participants included NCAA Division I (DI, n = 45), II (DII, n = 31), and III (DIII, n = 47) athletes. Athletes completed a validated questionnaire designed to assess sports nutrition knowledge and were asked questions about their perceived dietary energy and macronutrient requirements. Daily energy intake values were calculated using a recommended relative energy intake value of 40, 50, and 60 kcal/kg/day for low, moderate, and high activity levels, respectively. Carbohydrate recommendations were calculated using 4, 6, and 8 g/kg/day, protein recommendations were calculated using relative intakes of 1.4, 1.6, and 1.8 g/kg/day, and fat recommendations were calculated from a relative percentage of total predicted daily energy requirements, equating to 15, 25, and 30% of daily energy. Additionally, athletes completed a questionnaire to assess mindfulness regarding eating habits. Overall, athletes answered 45.5 ± 13.5% of questions correctly on the nutrition questionnaire with significant differences observed between male (48.6 ± 13.6%) and female athletes (43.6 ± 13.2%; p = 0.044), as well as significant differences observed between DI athlete scores (38.8 ± 14.1%) and DII athletes (47.7 ± 11.4%; p = 0.002), and DI athletes and DIII athletes (51.71 ± 11.83%; p = <0.001). All athletes significantly (p < 0.001) underestimated daily energy intake requirements (female, 2,112 ± 575 kcal/day; male, 3,283 ± 538 kcal/day). The mindfulness eating habits total score was significantly higher in male athletes (65.1 ± 6.5) compared to female athletes (60.9 ± 9.5; p = 0.009). Division I, II, and III collegiate athletes have poor sports nutrition knowledge, with Division I athletes having exhibited lower scores compared to Division II and III athletes on the sports nutrition knowledge questionnaire. Athletes from all levels of collegiate sports underestimated their energy and macronutrient requirements. Differences in mindful eating habits among female and male athletes were also evident.

Boosting the Immune System by Sport Activity and Nutrition Against Coronavirus (COVID)

Boosting the Immune System by Sport Activity and Nutrition Against Coronavirus (COVID)

The effectiveness of a 12-week sport nutrition education intervention on female volleyball players performance

The effectiveness of a 12-week sport nutrition education intervention on female volleyball players performance

Enhancement of Sports Nutrition Knowledge and Energy Intake after Sports Nutrition Education for Combat Athletes

Enhancement of Sports Nutrition Knowledge and Energy Intake after Sports Nutrition Education for Combat Athletes

Fluid Intake and Hydration Strategies of Bodybuilders In the Capricorn District, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Background: Bodybuilding athletes in Capricorn district of Limpopo province adhere to various hydration practices. However, the extend at which these athletes adhere to the fluid intake and hydration guidelines during sport engagement is unknown. Research objectives: This study aimed to determine the fluid intake and hydration practices of bodybuilders in Capricorn District of Limpopo province and adherence to the guidelines thereof. Furthermore, to investigate the association of fluid intake with the demography of athletes. Methods: A quantitative descriptive study was used to obtain 66 part-time bodybuilders in the Capricorn district. Demographic information and hydration practices of the athletes were collected during training days. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the athletes' fluid intake and hydration practices. Pearson's correlation test was used to associate hydration practices with the athletes' educational status and source of hydration information. Athletes were 24 (± 4.2) years old, engaged as bodybuilders for 2.3 (± 1.5) years, training once a day (61%), for 2.2 hours (males) and 2.0 hours (females). Athletes used pure water before (51%), during (47%) and after training (57%). Social media (47%) and the internet (25%) were used as sources of hydration information. There was no significant correlation between hydration practices and demographics. Conclusion: Fluid intake of athletes was suboptimal. Athletes consumed mostly pure water before, during, and after their training sessions. Therefore, athletes’ fluid intake (amount) and hydration strategies (type and timing of fluid) did not adhere (mostly suboptimal to) sports nutrition standards. This poses a risk for dehydration during sport.

The Effect of Cannabidiol on Subjective Responses to Endurance Exercise: A Randomised Controlled Trial

BackgroundExercise is known to improve health. However, it can be unpleasant, often inducing negative feelings, or ‘affect’. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating constituent of the cannabis plant, has been reported to enhance the subjective experience of exercise; specifically, in trained individuals performing fixed-intensity endurance activity. Here, we investigated the effects of CBD on subjective responses to exercise under more ecologically valid conditions; namely, in recreationally active individuals performing self-paced endurance activity.MethodsA randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial was conducted at Griffith University between July 17 and August 28, 2023. Griffith University students studying sports nutrition were invited to take part, with eligible volunteers ≥ 18 years of age and able to perform endurance exercise. Participants ingested placebo or 150 mg CBD in two soft-gel capsules 90 min before completing a self-paced 25-lap (10 km) run around an outdoor athletics track (400 m, synthetic). The primary outcomes were affective valence during exercise, assessed on completion of laps 6, 12, 18 and 24 using the ‘Feelings Scale’, and positive and negative affect, assessed at baseline, pre-run and post-run using the ‘Positive and Negative Affect Schedule’. Exercise enjoyment, motivation and self-efficacy, the core features of the ‘runner’s high’ (i.e., euphoria, pain, anxiety, sedation), perceived exertion and run time were also assessed.ResultsFifty-two participants were randomised and 51 were included in the final sample (n = 22 female; 22 [21–25] years). Exercise induced negative affect (i.e., at the time of undertaking) and increased pain. CBD did not counteract either response. In fact, CBD had no significant effects on any of the outcomes measured. In contrast, exercise, once completed, increased positive affect, and decreased negative affect and anxiety.ConclusionsCBD (150 mg, oral) does not appear to enhance the subjective experience of self-paced endurance exercise in recreationally active individuals. Nor, however, does it appear to compromise it. These findings suggest that CBD use is safe under exercise conditions and unlikely to impede physical activity participation. Our study also reaffirms the powerful mood-enhancing effects of exercise.Trial RegistrationRegistered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (www.anzctr.org.au) on May 31, 2023 (Trial ID: ACTRN12623000593639).

Evaluation of the results of the study of individual indicators of physical development, special physical fitness and sports nutrition "Power Pro" of graduates of higher education with specific training conditions, engaged in mixed martial arts

Evaluation of the results of the study of individual indicators of physical development, special physical fitness and sports nutrition "Power Pro" of graduates of higher education with specific training conditions, engaged in mixed martial arts and law enforcement officers In order to achieve and maintain a high level of functional and physical fitness, high sports results, and maintaining the health of those who practice, a number of pedagogical, methodical, psychological, and medical-biological aspects are necessary. Therefore, the introduction of specialized sports nutrition is expedient. With the rational development of nutrition schemes, it is possible to increase the performance of athletes, improve all necessary indicators and planned results. The purpose of the article is to develop a program and recommendations for optimizing sports nutrition "Power Pro" and research the impact of specialized nutrition on individual anthropometric, indicators of general and special physical fitness of graduates of higher education with specific training conditions, engaged in mixed martial arts and law enforcement officers. The experiment involved young men (average age 19.10±0.74), high school graduates with specific training conditions, engaged in mixed martial arts and law enforcement officers (Dnipropetrovsk State University of Internal Affairs), who were divided into 2 groups – control (n= 15) and experimental (n=15). The purpose of using specialized sports nutrition was as follows: 1. Increasing both general and special fitness (training and competition). 2. Preventive action of possible injuries and disruption of adaptation. 3. Timely and correct recovery of the body of those who are engaged, after a state of overstrain. 4. Providing the body of those who are struggling with food substances, taking into account individual energy consumption. To test the developed program for the introduction of specialized sports nutrition, before and after the experiment, the following parameters were studied: height, weight, dynamometers, VL, impact force. We have developed and implemented schemes for the ratio and combination of food substances: whey protein, BCAA (branched chain amino acids), creatine, taurine, a complex of vitamins and minerals. When developing the program of specialized sports nutrition "Power Pro" for the experimental group, the main factors such as age characteristics and body weight, gender of the test subjects, as well as individual characteristics of their physical development, specifics of the sport were directly analyzed. The obtained results of the study showed a statistically significant improvement of individual anthropometric and indicators of special physical fitness in the experimental group (p&lt;0.05). This makes it possible to draw conclusions about the positive dynamics of the implemented program of specialized sports nutrition on the monitored indicators, which are basic for athletes specializing in mixed martial arts.