Authors:

Abstract

Background:

Compromised micronutrient or energy intake can influence body composition which could affect aerobic endurance of athletes potentially resulting in poor sports performance.

Objective:

To study the nutritional status, nutritional intake and aerobic endurance, and to identify potential associations between these parameters in Sri Lankan professional female hockey players.

Methods:

Professional, female hockey players (n=31) were recruited exclusively from professional clubs and the national team. Pretested questionnaires were administered to assess sport specific data and dietary intake. BMI, haemoglobin, serum ferritin and aerobic endurance were assessed.

Results:

Total energy intake from the diet was less than the individual specific requirement in 52%. Less diversity in carbohydrate intake observed (approximately 1/3 of total energy intake and 1/2 of the carbohydrates, is from rice). Twenty nine per cent were under weight (BMI<18.5 kg/m²).Over half the players were anaemic (Hb<120 g^/L) and 25% were iron deficient (ferritin<15.00 µg/L). Dietary intake of iron was less than the Recommended Dietary Allowance (<18 mg/day) in 90%. Mean aerobic endurance (27.98±6.90 mL/min/kg) (maximal oxygen uptake, VO₂ max) was very low. A moderate negative correlation (r=-0.672) (P<0.01) for BMI and a moderate positive correlation (r=+0.538) (P<0.01) for energy balance were observed for VO₂ Max.

Conclusion:

Keywords: Low energy intake, Iron deficiency, Low BMI, Low Iron status, Low aerobic endurance, Hockey players