Comparison of dietary intake, energy adequacy and anthropometric parameters between Indian junior male and female hockey players.

Introduction: Athletes' performance is highly depended on their nutritional status for optimising performance. This study is aimed at assessing and comparing adequacy intake of nutrients and energy between male and female Indian hockey players. Methods: A total of 40 Indian junior national hockey players with an equal number of males and females were selected randomly by the Sports Authority of India, Kolkata. Mean age of males was 18.2±2.3 years while that of females was 17.1±2.2 years. Dietary intake was assessed based on a 3-consecutive-day, 24- hour dietary recall and frequency intake questionnaire. Dietary intake adequacy was determined according to the Recommended Dietary Allowance for India (2010). Energy requirement was estimated by the basal metabolic rate based on the Harris-Benedict formula and multiplied by an index of physical activity. Various anthropometric parameters were assessed using standard procedures. Results: Total energy intake was significantly lower in both male (2622±450 kcal) and female (1848±236 kcal) when compared with their total energy expenditure (male: 3621±127 kcal, female: 3049±115 kcal; p<0.00). Dietary intake consisted of low fat (male: 53.5±14.01g; female: 34.0±8.33 g) and high carbohydrate (male: 431.7±85.90 g; female: 317.5±45.69 g). Insufficient intake of iron, folic acid, zinc, B-vitamins and vitamin-C were found among female participants, but not in the males. Significant differences were observed in muscle mass and haemoglobin level between the sexes. Conclusion: The study revealed inadequate dietary intake among hockey players, especially among the females. Individualised nutritional orientation, nutrition education and dietary interventions are recommended for Indian hockey players towards improving their performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]