Dietary Intakes and Nutritional Status of a Greek Team of Female Volleyball Players

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this study was to assess the dietary intakes and nutritional status of a nationally ranked team of female volleyball players. Methods: The subjects completed a general history questionnaire and 7-day food and physical activity records. Anthropometric measurements included height, weight, triceps and subscapular skinfolds and mid-upper-arm circumference. Biochemical assessment included parameters for protein, lipid, and iron status. Results: All subjects had normal menstrual cycles and body fat values (27 %) at levels higher than for optimum performance. Most were in negative energy balance and had low energy (30 kcal/kg/d), carbohydrate (3.8 g/kg/d) and protein (1.0 g/kg/d) intakes. Fat intakes were high (39 %) and micronutrient intakes were below recommended levels, except for vitamin C, vitamin B12 and niacin. Biochemical indices were normal except for iron and lipid status of some players. Conclusion: These results indicate that the players of this team have dietary intakes that place them at risk for nutritional shortages and compromised performance; they need professional counseling regarding nutrition practices for optimum health and performance.

Energy and Macronutrient Intake of Men Volleyball Players in Ethiopian Premier League

“…This implies that diet of athletes has a significant effect on overall athletic performance [13]. Highly intensive games, like volleyball, require an additional energy and nutrient demand [16]. Hence, a volleyball players recommended to take a well-designed diet both adequate amounts and proportion of energy and macronutrients associated with training, competition and individual characteristics [3,13,18].…”

“…Given the values of proper nutrition on volleyball performance, there have been few studies conducted to assess the nutritional consumption of volleyball players particularly, in Ethiopian Players [1,4,16,21,24,36]. The above-mentioned studies place emphasis on female volleyball players.…”