EATING HABITS IN RECREATIONAL ATHLETES: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Aim: Physical activity (PA) is an important factor in maintaining health, and combined with a balanced diet, it forms the basis of a healthy lifestyle. A diet not aligned with proper nutritional guidelines and the intensity of PA can affect the body's functioning, hinder recovery after training, and increase the risk of injury. This study examines the PA among recreational athletes and explores their eating habits.

Methods: An observational study was conducted using Metabolic Equivalent Task (MET) minutes/week to determine the level of PA. Dietary data were collected using a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ).

Results: The study involved 62 respondents, categorized into groups of moderately, intensively, and very intensively active recreational athletes. Despite recognizing the importance of PA recreational athletes exhibited inadequate dietary habits. Higher intake of fats, cholesterol, and saturated fatty acids was observed, as well as lower intake of carbohydrates than recommended. Most vitamins and some mineral intakes exceeded recommendations. Significant differences between groups were noted only for folate and saturated fatty acid intake.

Conclusion: Nutritional education by professional nutritionists is essential for recreational athletes to correct improper eating habits. The findings of this study can be applied in similar socioeconomic-cultural regions.