Nutritional Intake and Energy Availability of Collegiate Distance Runners

Abstract

Objective: Research investigating the dietary habits of distance runners has presented varying results. Proper dietary intake appears to enhance distance running performance and low dietary intake may impact health. The purpose of this investigation was to perform a comprehensive evaluation of nutrient intake of collegiate distance runners with comparison to recommendations for athletes. Methods: Twenty-one men (Age: 19.6 ± 1.2 years; height: 177.1 ± 5.7 cm; body mass: 65.7 ± 4.6 kg; body fat: 15.5 ± 2.2%) and 20 women (Age: 20.2 ± 1.7 years; height: 162.9 ± 6.6 cm; body mass: 53.7 ± 6.5 kg; body fat: 23.3 ± 3.6%) volunteered to participate in the investigation. Energy intake was derived from the Block Food Frequency Questionnaire. Energy availability was calculated by subtracting exercising energy expenditure from daily energy intake, divided by bone free lean mass and fat-free mass. Macronutrient and micronutrient consumption were compared with the appropriate dietary reference intake values, U.S. Dietary Guidelines, or standards recommended for endurance athletes. Results: Dietary intake for the men was 2,741.0 ± 815.2kilocalories and for the women was 1,927.7 ± 638.2kilocalories. A majority of the runners (73%) consumed less than recommended levels of carbohydrates. All men and 75% of women met or exceeded the recommended daily protein intake. Fifty percent of women and 24% of men did not meet the recommended daily allowance for calcium. Ninety-five percent of the runners…