Comparison of diet consumption, body composition and lipoprotein lipid values of Kuwaiti fencing players with international norms

Abstract

BackgroundNo published data is currently available that describes the dietary patterns or physiological profiles of athletes participating on the Kuwaiti national fencing team and its potential impact on health and physical performance. The purpose of this investigation was to: 1) collect baseline data on nutrient intake 2) collect, analyze and report baseline for body composition, plasma lipid and lipoprotein concentrations during the competitive season, 3) compare the results with the international norms, 4) and provide necessary health and nutritional information in order to enhance the athletes' performance and skills.MethodsFifteen national-class fencers 21.5 ± 2.6 years of age participated in this study. Food intake was measured using a 3-day food record. Body composition was estimated using both the BOD POD and Body Mass Index (BMI). Total blood lipid profiles and maximum oxygen consumption was measured for each of the subjects during the competitive season.ResultsThe results of the present study showed significant differences in dietary consumption in comparison with the recommended dietary allowances (RDA). The blood lipids profile and body composition (BMI and % body fat) were in normal range in comparison with international norms However, the average VO2 max value was less than the value of the other fencers.ConclusionDue to the results of the research study, a dietary regimen can be designed that would better enhance athletic performance and minimize any health risks associated with nutrition. Percent body fat and BMI will also be categorized for all players. In addition, the plasma blood tests will help to determine if any of the players have an excessive level of lipids or any blood abnormalities. The outcomes of present study will have a direct impact on the players health and therefore their skills and athletic performance.

Athlete perspectives on the enablers and barriers to nutritional adherence in high-performance sport

“…The current evidence-base on the factors influencing athlete dietary behaviours is somewhat narrowly focused on nutrition knowledge or nutrient intake of specific athlete groups. For example, American football players and fencers (Cole et al, 2005;Ghloum & Hajji, 2011).…”

Dietary Acid-Base Balance in High-Performance Athletes

“…The similarity in problems such as high protein and fat intakes was found among athletes from many countries. Based on the research data reported in the scientific literature, it has been stated that a diet high in protein and fat, but low in carbohydrates was adopted by professional athletes from countries such as Poland [ 15 , 16 ], Iran [ 17 ], Kuwait [ 18 ], England [ 19 , 20 ], Brazil [ 21 ], Greece [ 22 ], Australia [ 23 , 24 , 25 ], France [ 26 , 27 ] Finland [ 28 ], China [ 29 , 30 ], Ireland [ 31 ], Netherlands [ 32 ], Spain [ 33 , 34 ], the United States of America (USA) [ 35 ], South Africa [ 36 ], Canada [ 37 ]. It has also been found that if athletes consume large amounts of protein and their diets are low in carbohydrates, they can suffer from metabolic acidosis which can adversely affect their physical performance [ 13 , 38 , 39 , 40 ].…”

Evaluation of The Effect of Healthy Nutrition Attitudes and Sleep Quality on Sports Performance in Fencing Athletes

“…As is the case in other branches of sport, nutrition is also of great importance in fencing. However, there are very few studies on the nutritional attitudes and habits of fencers (11).…”