Exploring the Influence of Age-sex Difference and Nutritional Status on Blood Lipid Variables among Nigerian Athletes by Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis

Abstract

Background: Due to various factors, blood lipid profiles may vary across ethnicities. These effects may be particularly prominent in athletes and dependent on nutritional status during training. This study aimed to investigate blood lipid variables in relation to age, sex, and nutritional status among athletes in Nigeria. Methods: A total of 202 athletes (112 males and 90 females) were recruited between February 2022 and April 2023 at the Ebonyi State Sporting Complex in Abakaliki. Body compositions were assessed using a bioelectrical analysis (BIA) model. A significance level of p<0.05 was used. Results: Significant differences were found in blood lipid. Male athletes had higher levels of total cholesterol (3.91±0.39) and LDL cholesterol (1.96±0.25) compared to female athletes (3.93±0.43 and 193±0.47). Furthermore, older athletes had higher levels of total cholesterol (3.91±0.39, p<0.05) and triglycerides (1.02±0.34, p<0.05) compared to younger athletes (3.86±0.36 and 1.07±0.38). Based on BMI categories, approximately 37.6% of the individuals in the sample were classified as normal, 34.2% as overweight, and 28.2% as obese. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the differences in blood lipid variables among athletic populations, shedding light on the cardiovascular health of athletes. These insights can inform targeted interventions and monitoring strategies.