Sport-specific nutrition: practical strategies for team sports

Developing a data-driven multimodal injury and illness prevention programme in male professional football based on a risk management model: the IP2 NetWork

Background

Current injury prevention programmes in football are limited by a one-size-fits-all approach, which predominantly focuses on preventive exercise programmes while ignoring differences in risk profiles between individuals and teams.

Objective

To address this gap, we developed a new data-driven, customisable approach based on the principles of risk management. We collaborated with key stakeholders to identify focus areas for injury and illness prevention and determine their priorities.

Setting

The team medical and coaching staff included members from 17 professional football clubs, the national team and a youth football academy in Qatar.

Methods

In 2015, we launched a series of annual workshops under the Aspetar Sports Injury and Illness Prevention Programme. The workshops included club medical personnel and fitness coaches in a process to develop team-specific programmes for injury and illness prevention based on the principle of risk management. Over 2 years, workshops refined focus areas through discussions, surveys and small-group presentations, culminating in the creation a novel programme for football injury prevention.

Results

Out of 44 focus areas first identified, 23 were selected as priorities for inclusion in multimodal injury and illness prevention programmes. The identified focus areas represent a variety of aspects, including social/behavioural/lifestyle, exercise programmes/training, load management, recovery and equipment. The top priorities included communication, the Nordic hamstring exercise, training load, recovery strategies, nutrition, sleep, warm-up, the Copenhagen adduction exercise and core and dynamic stability.

Conclusion

We have developed a comprehensive framework for preventing injuries and illnesses in football grounded in the general principles of risk management. This framework has proven feasible and led to the creation of a new multicomponent programme, The Aspetar IP2 (Injury and Illness Prevention for Performance) NetWork, focusing on a range of areas beyond preventive exercise programmes only.

Contemporary Themes in Dietary Intake in Rugby Union Players: A Narrative Review

Rugby union is an intermittent team sport with variability in body composition and match-play demands between positions which requires careful consideration for individual dietary requirements. While previous reviews have detailed the macronutrient intake in rugby players, none have discussed the further determinants of dietary intake in this population. Therefore, the purpose of the current review was to summarise the current evidence detailing dietary intake in rugby union players, report on contemporary nutritional research themes, and provide recommendations for athletes, nutritionists, and other stakeholders. In total, eighteen articles report on dietary intake in rugby players, with only one of these detailing dietary intake in female athletes. Recent studies have reported on both protein and carbohydrate periodisation practices in rugby union players; however, there is currently limited evidence as to the influence of these on performance, recovery, and well-being. Factors influencing eating patterns, the impact of sports nutritionists on dietary intake, and food consumption in catered and non-catered environments has been explored in isolated studies. Nutrition knowledge levels in rugby players have been reported in several studies; however, the influence this has on dietary intake in rugby players is unknown. Collectively, despite new contemporary themes emerging in the literature concerning dietary intake in rugby players, the studies are isolated; as such, there is limited scope to the translatability of information due to heterogeneity in sex, level of play, and location of participants. Given this, future research should aim to build upon the themes identified in this review in combination to support practitioners working within their specific environments. This will subsequently build towards the generation of rugby-specific recommendations.

Evaluation of Nutrition and Performance Parameters in Division 1 Collegiate Athletes

BACKGROUND

Testing and evaluating athletes is necessary and should include performance, body composition, and nutrition. The purpose of this study was to report assessments of dietary intake, V˙O2max, and body composition in D1 collegiate athletes and examine relationships between these assessments.

METHODS

Dietary intake was assessed with 3-day recalls and compared to recommendations, and body composition was assessed via bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) (n = 48). V˙O2max was evaluated using a graded exercise test (GXT) with a verification bout (n = 35). Reliability between "true" V˙O2max and verification was determined. Correlations and regressions were performed.

RESULTS

Energy, carbohydrate, and micronutrient intake was lower than recommendations. Mean V˙O2max was 47.3 and 47.4 mL·kg-1·min-1 for GXT and verification, respectively. While correlations were apparent among dietary intake, V˙O2max, and body composition, percent fat-free mass (%FFM) predicted 36% of V˙O2max.

CONCLUSIONS

Collegiate athletes are not meeting energy and carbohydrate recommendations and exceed fat recommendations. Vitamin D and magnesium were low in all sports, and iron and calcium were low in females. V˙O2max ranged from 35.6 to 63.0 mL·kg-1·min-1, with females below average and males meeting typical values for their designated sport. Assessing D1 athletes can provide guidance for sports dietitians, coaches, and strength and conditioning specialists to track and monitor nutrition in athletes.

Real-World Fatigue Testing in Professional Rugby Union: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Professional rugby union is a high-intensity contact sport with position-specific high training and match volumes across a season that may lead to periods of fatigue if above a typically experienced threshold. This study assesses the influence of match play and/or training on fatigue levels in rugby union players.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of measures used to assess fatigue status in male professional rugby union players.

METHODS

Using electronic databases (PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and MEDLINE), a systematic review of fatigue testing in rugby union was conducted on (1) neuromuscular, (2) subjective self-report, (3) biochemical, and (4) heart rate-derived measures.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven articles were included in this systematic review, of which 14 were further included in a meta-analysis. The results of the meta-analysis revealed small, yet not significant, decreases in countermovement jump height immediately after (effect size [ES] =  - 0.29; 95% confidence interval [CI] - 0.64 to 0.06), 24 h (ES =  - 0.43; 95% CI - 3.99 to 3.21), and 48 h (ES =  - 0.22; 95% CI - 0.47 to 0.02) after exposure to rugby union match play or training. Reported wellness (ES =  - 0.33; 95% CI - 1.70 to 1.04) and tiredness (ES =  - 0.14; 95% CI - 1.30 to 1.03) declined over a period of a few weeks (however, the results were not-statistically significant), meanwhile muscle soreness increased (ES = 0.91; 95% CI 0.06 to 1.75) within the 96 h after the exposure to rugby union match play or training. Finally, while cortisol levels (ES = 1.87; 95% CI - 1.54 to 5.29) increased, testosterone declined (ES =  - 1.54; 95% CI - 7.16 to 4.08) within the 24 h after the exposure. However, these results were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Subjective measures of muscle soreness can be used to assess fatigue after match play and training in rugby union players. Within-study and between-study variability for countermovement jump height, biochemical markers, and heart rate-derived measures means the utility (practical application) of these measures to assess fatigue in professional rugby union players after matches and training is unclear.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO ID: CRD42020216706.

Association between Low Energy Availability (LEA) and Impaired Sleep Quality in Young Rugby Players

Low energy availability (LEA) has been associated with several physiological consequences, but its impact on sleep has not been sufficiently investigated, especially in the context of young athletes. This study examined the potential association between energy availability (EA) status and objective sleep quality in 42 male rugby players (mean age: 16.2 ± 0.8 years) during a 7-day follow-up with fixed sleep schedules in the midst of an intensive training phase. Participants' energy intake was weighed and recorded. Exercise expenditure was estimated using accelerometry. Portable polysomnography devices captured sleep on the last night of the follow-up. Mean EA was 29.3 ± 9.14 kcal·kg FFM-1·day-1, with 47.6% of athletes presenting LEA, 35.7% Reduced Energy Availability (REA), and 16.7% Optimal Energy Availability (OEA). Lower sleep efficiency (SE) and N3 stage proportion, along with higher wake after sleep onset (WASO), were found in participants with LEA compared to those with OEA (p = 0.04, p = 0.03 and p = 0.005, respectively, with large effect sizes). Segmented regression models of the EA-sleep outcomes (SE, sleep onset latency [SOL]), WASO and N3) relationships displayed two separate linear regions and produced a best fit with a breakpoint between 21-33 kcal·kg FFM-1·day-1. Below these thresholds, sleep quality declines considerably. It is imperative for athletic administrators, nutritionists, and coaches to conscientiously consider the potential impact of LEA on young athletes' sleep, especially during periods of heavy training.

A Decrease in Branched-Chain Amino Acids after a Competitive Male Professional Volleyball Game-A Metabolomic-Based Approach

A competitive volleyball game is a highly metabolic and physically demanding event for professional players. This study aimed to investigate whether a single game at the end of a preseason promotes changes in the biochemical markers of physical exercise responses and the metabolomic profile of professional volleyball players. This cross-sectional study included 13 male Brazilian professional volleyball players. Food intake, body composition, heart rate, physical movement variables, and blood biochemical indicators were evaluated. For non-target metabolomic analysis, serum samples were subjected to 500 MHz Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. Data analysis showed no significant difference in the biochemical indicators after the game (p > 0.05). The level of metabolites present in the groups of the main components (β-hydroxybutyrate, arginine/lysine, isoleucine, leucine, and valine) had decreased after the game. However, formic acid and histidine levels increased. Among the compounds not part of the main components, hypoxanthine and tyrosine increased, whereas low-density lipoprotein and very low-density lipoprotein levels decreased. After the game, the metabolomic profiles of players showed significant negative variations in essential amino acids (leucine, valine, and isoleucine). These decreases might be influenced by athlete diet and reduced glycogen storage due to lower carbohydrate intake, potentially impacting serum-essential amino acid levels via oxidation in skeletal muscle. The study provides insights for developing metabolic compensation strategies in athletes.

Athletes' nutritional demands: a narrative review of nutritional requirements

Nutrition serves as the cornerstone of an athlete's life, exerting a profound impact on their performance and overall well-being. To unlock their full potential, athletes must adhere to a well-balanced diet tailored to their specific nutritional needs. This approach not only enables them to achieve optimal performance levels but also facilitates efficient recovery and reduces the risk of injuries. In addition to maintaining a balanced diet, many athletes also embrace the use of nutritional supplements to complement their dietary intake and support their training goals. These supplements cover a wide range of options, addressing nutrient deficiencies, enhancing recovery, promoting muscle synthesis, boosting energy levels, and optimizing performance in their respective sports or activities. The primary objective of this narrative review is to comprehensively explore the diverse nutritional requirements that athletes face to optimize their performance, recovery, and overall well-being. Through a thorough literature search across databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus, we aim to provide evidence-based recommendations and shed light on the optimal daily intakes of carbohydrates, protein, fats, micronutrients, hydration strategies, ergogenic aids, nutritional supplements, and nutrient timing. Furthermore, our aim is to dispel common misconceptions regarding sports nutrition, providing athletes with accurate information and empowering them in their nutritional choices.

Resistance-only and concurrent exercise induce similar myofibrillar protein synthesis rates and associated molecular responses in moderately active men before and after training

Aerobic and resistance exercise (RE) induce distinct molecular responses. One hypothesis is that these responses are antagonistic and unfavorable for the anabolic response to RE when concurrent exercise is performed. This thesis may also depend on the participants' training status and concurrent exercise order. We measured free-living myofibrillar protein synthesis (MyoPS) rates and associated molecular responses to resistance-only and concurrent exercise (with different exercise orders), before and after training. Moderately active men completed one of three exercise interventions (matched for age, baseline strength, body composition, and aerobic capacity): resistance-only exercise (RE, n = 8), RE plus high-intensity interval exercise (RE+HIIE, n = 8), or HIIE+RE (n = 9). Participants trained 3 days/week for 10 weeks; concurrent sessions were separated by 3 h. On the first day of Weeks 1 and 10, muscle was sampled immediately before and after, and 3 h after each exercise mode and analyzed for molecular markers of MyoPS and muscle glycogen. Additional muscle, sampled pre- and post-training, was used to determine MyoPS using orally administered deuterium oxide (D2 O). In both weeks, MyoPS rates were comparable between groups. Post-exercise changes in proteins reflective of protein synthesis were also similar between groups, though MuRF1 and MAFbx mRNA exhibited some exercise order-dependent responses. In Week 10, exercise-induced changes in MyoPS and some genes (PGC-1ɑ and MuRF1) were dampened from Week 1. Concurrent exercise (in either order) did not compromise the anabolic response to resistance-only exercise, before or after training. MyoPS rates and some molecular responses to exercise are diminished after training.

The effect of eight weeks beetroot juice supplement on aerobic, anaerobic power, and field performance of soccer players

The purpose of the study investigated the effect of eight weeks of soccer training with beetroot juice supplement on aerobic power, anaerobic power, and field performance of soccer players. This is experimental research, by the control group in pre and post-test. The statistical population was male soccer players. Forty subjects were randomly divided into four groups including the exercise group (EX) the exercise group with beetroot juice supplement (EX&BRJS) the beetroot juice supplement group (BRJS), and the control group (C). Aerobic power, anaerobic threshold, and respiratory exchange ratio, measured by the gas analyser (Cosmed), anaerobic power (peak, mean power), and fatigue index, by Wingate cycle test (Monark, 839), and field performance by (Bangsbo, field test performance). The statistical methods include the Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Levin, covariance (ANCOVA), and pair comparison with Bonferroni test. The results showed eight weeks' of soccer training with beetroot juice supplement, significantly changed aerobic power, respiratory exchange ratio, anaerobic threshold, anaerobic power, field performance, and fatigue index (P ≤ 0.05). Additionally, in all variables, the paired comparison showed that the EX&BRJS group progressed more than all other condition groups. The soccer athletes may use beetroot juice supplements along with soccer exercises to improve aerobic and anaerobic power and field performance.

Cooking and food skills confidence of team sport athletes in Ireland

Nutritional support often focuses on cooking and food skills such as food selection, recipe planning and meal preparation. Individuals with greater cooking and food skills confidence have previously displayed higher diet quality scores and lower intakes of overall calories, saturated fat and sugar. Despite this, the cooking and food skills of team sport athletes have yet to be investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between cooking and food skills confidence and athletes' demographic characteristics. A validated measure for the assessment of cooking and food skills confidence was distributed via an online survey. Participants were required to rate their confidence on a Likert scale (1 "very poor" - 7 "very good") for 14 items related to cooking skills and 19 items for food skills. Food engagement, general health interest and self-reported fruit and vegetable consumption as a measure of diet quality were also measured. The survey was completed by 266 team sport athletes (male: 150, female: 116, age: 24.8 ± 6.1 years). Group differences were explored using t-tests and ANOVA and associations were evaluated using Spearman's correlation and hierarchical multiple regressions. Athletes' total cooking and food skills confidence was 62.7 ± 17.4 (64.0 ± 17.8%) and 83.8 ± 20.1 (63.0 ± 15.1%), respectively. Females reported greater confidence in both cooking (+20.3%, p < 0.01) and food skills (+9.2%, p < 0.01). Hierarchical multiple regressions explained 48.8% of the variance in cooking skills confidence and 44% of the variance in food skills confidence with gender, previous culinary training, cooking learning stage, general health interest and food engagement all remaining significant in the cooking skills confidence model and cooking frequency, previous culinary training, general health interest and food engagement remaining significant in the food skills confidence model. Male team sport athletes may benefit the most from educational interventions designed to increase cooking and food skills confidence.

The associations between anthropometric characteristics and nutritional parameters in male elite rugby union players

The objective was to analyse the associations between anthropometric characteristics and diet in male rugby players according to the playing position. A cross-sectional study was developed. The forwards had higher body weight (107 kg) and fat mass (FM; 12%) than the backs (87.8 kg and 8.47%, respectively) (p < 0.05). The quality of diet needs to improve (KIDMED value of 5.87 and 6.36 for forwards and backs, respectively). Nutritional imbalances, such as deficits in carbohydrates, fibre, calcium, magnesium and vitamin D, and excess of fats, saturated fatty acid, cholesterol and sugars were found. Carbohydrates and proteins intake were significant associated (p < 0.05) with a minor FM. Forwards with a KIDMED index of less than 8 had a significantly higher FM than those who maintained an optimal diet (p < 0.05). The diet of rugby players should be more in line with dietary recommendations and take into account the player position to optimise sports performance.

Factors Influencing Nutritional Intake and Interests in Educational Content of Athletes and Sport Professionals Toward the Development of a Clinician-Supported Mobile App to Combat Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport: Formative Research and a Description of App Functions

BACKGROUND

Relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S) as a consequence of athlete malnutrition remains a prominent issue. However, it remains underrecognized, in part due to the perceived outward health of athletes. The Eat2Win app was designed to combat RED-S and athlete malnutrition by providing education, behavior modification, and direct communication with expert sports dietitians to athletes and sport professionals (professionals who work with athletes, eg, sport coaches and athletic trainers).

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this formative research was to gain critical insight on motivators and barriers to optimal nutritional intake from both the athletes' and sport professionals' perspectives. Additionally, since these 2 groups represent the primary end users of an app aimed at improving athlete nutrition and reducing the risk of RED-S, a secondary objective was to gain insight on the preferences and perceptions of app-based educational content and functionality.

METHODS

An electronic survey was developed by an interdisciplinary team of experts. Survey questions were established based upon prevailing literature, professional dietetic field experience, and app design considerations to obtain respondent knowledge on key sports nutrition topics along with motivations and barriers to meal choices. Additionally, the survey included questions about the development of an integrative, clinician-support app aimed at addressing RED-S. These questions included preferences for educational content, modes of in-app information, and communication delivery for the target population (app end users: athletes and sport professionals). The survey was distributed through Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) to athletes and sport professionals using targeted email, social media, and community engagement campaigns. The electronic survey was available from May 4 to August 2, 2022.

RESULTS

Survey respondents (n=1352) included athletes and professionals who work with athletes from a variety of settings, like high school, collegiate, professional, and club sports. Respondents reported high interest in 8 core sports nutrition topics. The preferred modes of information and communication delivery were visual formats (eg, videos and infographics) and in-app alerts (eg, direct messaging and meal reminders). Only athlete respondents were asked about motivators and barriers that influence meal choices. "Health" and "sports performance" were the highest scoring motivators, while the highest scoring barriers were "cost of food," "easy access to unhealthy food," and "time to cook or prepare food." Notably, survey respondents provided positive feedback and interest using a novel function of the app: real-time meal feedback through food photography.

CONCLUSIONS

The Eat2Win app is designed to combat RED-S and athlete malnutrition. Results from this study provide critical information on end-user opinions and preferences and will be used to further develop the Eat2Win app. Future research will aim to determine whether the Eat2Win app can prevent RED-S and the risk of athlete malnutrition to improve both health and performance.

Intermediate-Level Diet Quality of Brazilian Paralympic Athletes Based on National and International Indexes

Diet quality indexes are used to characterize the dietary patterns of individuals and populations. The objective of this study was to compare two specific diet quality indexes, namely the Brazilian Healthy Eating Index Revised (BHEI-R) and the Global Diet Quality Score (GDQS), among Brazilian parathletes. This comparison was performed using either the initial 24 h recall (Rec1) or an assessment of usual dietary intake. Additionally, our study aimed to explore the association of these indexes with sociodemographic and behavioral sport variables. This cross-sectional, observational study evaluated 101 disabled athletes, including 23 international-level and 78 regional-/national-level participants, with a distribution of 82 males and 19 females across 13 Paralympic modalities. The Multiple Source Method (MSM) was employed, utilizing data from two or four non-consecutive 24 h food recalls. The comparison between the Rec1 and the assessment of usual dietary intake revealed the following median (IQR) values: for the BHEI-R, they were 60.3 ± 11.1 and 80.7 ± 6.2, respectively; for the GDQS, they were 19.5 ± 6.5 and 18.3 ± 2.6, respectively. Most athletes had diets classified as either "in need of modification" (according to BHEI-R) or of "moderate risk" (according to GDQS). The comparison between type of sport (team/individual), age, sex, income, education, sport scholarship, and nutritional support between the diet quality indexes is presented. Athletes involved in individual sports exhibited higher scores than team sports for BHEI-R (p < 0.02), and athletes receiving nutritional support achieved higher scores on both indexes (p < 0.03). The analysis of diet quality using the initial Rec1 with the BHEI-R was deemed sufficient to evaluate the diet quality of these athletes. However, when evaluating sporadically consumed food groups, the adoption of GDQS is necessary to assess usual dietary intake. We found that both BHEI-R and GDQS can be utilized to evaluate the diet quality of athletes with disabilities, and the diet quality of parathletes reached an intermediate score level.

Energy Expenditure, Dietary Energy Intake, and Nutritional Supplements in Adolescent Volleyball Athletes versus Nonathletic Controls

Evidence suggests that athletes competing in team sports do not follow dietary recommendations. However, only few studies have investigated energy needs and supplement use in adolescent athletes, and whether they are meeting their energy requirements. This observational study examined energy expenditure, dietary energy intake, and use of nutritional supplements in 58 adolescent (14-17 years old) volleyball athletes (15 males, 43 females) and 58 age-matched nonathletic controls (13 males, 45 females). Participants completed an online survey including questions on demographic information, body mass, and a series of standardized questionnaires assessing energy expenditure, dietary energy, macronutrient, micronutrient, and supplement intake. Energy expenditure relative to body mass was higher in athletes than nonathletes by 13 kcal/kg/day (group effect, p < 0.001), and in males compared to females by 5.7 kcal/kg/day (sex effect, p = 0.004). Athletes had higher energy intake than nonathletes (+6.4 kcal/kg/day, p = 0.019) and greater consumption of fruits (p = 0.034), vegetables (p = 0.047), grains (p = 0.016), dairy (p = 0.038), meats and meat alternatives (p < 0.001), as well as higher intakes of fat (p < 0.001), carbohydrates, protein, sugar, fiber, vitamin C, calcium, and sodium (p = 0.05) compared to nonathletes. The average protein intakes exceeded the upper recommendations in all groups, suggesting that this is not a nutrient of concern for young volleyball athletes. However, athletes were only meeting 60% of the estimated energy requirements (EER) for their age, height, body mass, and physical activity score, (3322 ± 520 kcal/day), while nonathletes were meeting 74% of the EER (p < 0.001). The relative energy balance of male athletes was lower compared to both female athletes (p = 0.006) and male nonathletes (p = 0.004). Finally, more athletes reported using performance-related supplements than nonathletes, but there were no differences in the consumption of other dietary supplements. Overall, when compared to nonathletic controls, both male and female adolescent volleyball athletes were found to match their higher energy expenditure with a greater dietary energy intake; however, all adolescents were below the estimated energy requirements, a finding more profound among the volleyball athletes.

Energy and Macronutrients Intake in Indoor Sport Team Athletes: Systematic Review

Indoor team sports are characterized by matches that are shorter in duration and with frequent substitution (high-intensity intermittent). The main goal of teams is to best cover athletes' physiological demands, while meeting their dietary intake needs is critical. The aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review of the dietary intake of indoor team sports athletes and to analyze whether they comply with nutritional recommendations. A search of PubMed-MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus databases from 2008 to July 2022 was conducted and 2727 documents were identified. The studies focused on adult professional or semi-professional volleyball, basketball, handball, or futsal athletes. Two independent researchers screened and extracted the data, with 20 documents included after they met the inclusion criteria. Most of the athletes, both men and women, did not meet the official recommendations based on under-consumption (energy and carbohydrates) or over-consumption (fats). In relation to protein, 28.6% of studies met the recommendations, with 50% of those who did not meet it being due to under-consumption. Although there are references on athletes' dietary intakes, there are no references considering sexes or types of sport. More adapted recommendations are needed in order to more precisely evaluate athletes' intake to know if they meet their real nutritional requirements.

Dietary Intake of Young Male Ice Hockey Players 10-13 Years of Age during a Week-Long Hockey Camp

This study recorded the dietary intakes of young male ice hockey players (10-13 year (yr)) for 3 consecutive days while participating in a 5-day summer hockey camp. Players were categorized as older children (OC, n = 10; 10.7 ± 0.2 yr; 37.1 ± 1.5 kg; 147.9 ± 2.1 cm) and young adolescents (YA, n = 10; 12.9 ± 0.1 yr; 45.2 ± 1.5 kg; 157.0 ± 2.4 cm). Players consumed their usual daily intakes. Parents recorded food intake in the mornings and evenings, while the researchers recorded food intake at camp. Energy intake was higher in both groups when compared to data for age-matched young Canadian (CDN) males (OC, 2967 ± 211 vs. 2000 kcal/day; YA, 2773 ± 91 vs. 2250 kcal/day). Carbohydrate (CHO) (OC, 11.2 ± 0.8 vs. YO, 8.9 ± 0.5 g/kg body mass/day) and protein (OC, 3.2 ± 0.3; YO, 2.4 ± 0.1 g/kg/day) intakes were higher than reported for young CDN males (CHO, 3.6 and protein, 1.0 g/kg/day) and were within the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR; CHO, 56 ± 2.3; 57.4 ± 0.8%; protein, 16.1 ± 1.0; 15.7 ± 0.7%). Fat intake was also within the AMDR in both groups (OC, 29.8 ± 1.6%; YA, 28.3 ± 1.0%). Micronutrient intake was adequate except for Vitamin D intakes that were below the recommended 15 ug/day at 6.3 ± 0.7 (OC) and 5.0 ± 1.5 ug/day (YA). In summary, energy and macronutrient intakes of the OC (10-11 yr) and YA (12-13 yr) players were high and well above the age matched CDN norms. The older children had higher energy intakes/kg body mass than the young adolescents. Higher energy intakes allowed for micronutrients intakes to be met in these young active males, except for vitamin D intake.

Effects of Tabata and HIIT Programs Regarding Body Composition and Endurance Performance among Female Handball Players

Background: The purpose of the study was to analyze the effect of two different training modes towards the development of body composition, aerobic and anaerobic endurance of female handball players aged 18-23, in COVID-19 pandemic. (2) Methods: 18 female handball players from the second division were divided into two groups: Group 1 subject-ed to Tabata Program (n=9) and Group 2 trained using HIIT Program (n=9). (3) Results: Paired Sample T-Test was carried in the statistical analysis and the significance level was determined (p < .005). The group subjected to HIIT training achieved greater increases in endurance performance than the group carrying out Tabata training (p < .005). (4) Conclusions: Different results were obtained when studying changes regarding segmental analysis of upper, lower limbs and trunk. Both groups undergoing Tabata and HIIT train-ing registered improvements. Keywords: COVİD-19 pandemic; handball game; aerobic and anaerobic endurance; fitness programs

Evidence‐Based Recovery in Soccer – Low‐Effort Approaches for Practitioners

Strategies to improve recovery are widely used among soccer players at both amateur and professional levels. Sometimes, however, recovery strategies are ineffective, improperly timed or even harmful to players. This highlights the need to educate practitioners and athletes about the scientific evidence of recovery strategies as well as to provide practical approaches to address this issue. Therefore, recent surveys among soccer athletes and practitioners were reviewed to identify the recovery modalities currently in use. Each strategy was then outlined with its rationale, its physiological mechanisms and the scientific evidence followed by practical approaches to implement the modality. For each intervention, practical and particularly low-effort strategies are provided to ensure that practitioners at all levels are able to implement them. We identified numerous interventions regularly used in soccer, i.e., sleep, rehydration, nutrition, psychological recovery, active recovery, foam-rolling/massage, stretching, cold-water immersion, and compression garments. Nutrition and rehydration were classified with the best evidence, while cold-water immersion, compression garments, foam-rolling/massage and sleep were rated with moderate evidence to enhance recovery. The remaining strategies (active recovery, psychological recovery, stretching) should be applied on an individual basis due to weak evidence observed. Finally, a guide is provided, helping practitioners to decide which intervention to implement. Here, practitioners should rely on the evidence, but also on their own experience and preference of the players.

Dietary Intakes, Knowledge, and Perceptions of Semi-professional Rugby Athletes in Scotland

Background

Adequate nutritional intake plays a pivotal role in optimizing performance, recovery, and body composition goals. This study aimed to investigate the dietary intakes (DIs); nutritional knowledge (NK); and attitudes, perceptions, and challenges (APC) of semiprofessional rugby players in Scotland.

Methods

Dietary intakes and NK of 24 male semiprofessional rugby players of a Super6 club were evaluated using validated questionnaires. Players were categorized as having good or poor NK according to NK scores. Diet-related APCs were assessed using researcher-developed questionnaires and 1-1 semi-structured interviews.

Results

Mean ± SD total NK% was poor, 53.7 ± 11.9%. The ‘Good’ NK group scored significantly higher in the Weight Management (p = 0.014), Macronutrients (p < 0.001), Micronutrients (p = 0.001), and Sports Nutrition (p < 0.001) sections. Mean DIs from food sources were 26.3 ± 9.2 kcal/kg/day energy, 1.4 ± 0.4 g/kg/day protein, and 21.7 ± 10.1 g/day fibre. Median (25th,75th) carbohydrate intake was 3.0 (2.0, 3.0) g/kg/day, and 6.3 (2.3, 10.6) units/week alcohol. Mean ± SD fat and saturated fat (SFA) % total energy intake (EI) were 36.2 ± 3.7% and 12.8 ± 1.9%, respectively, and SFA %EI exceeded recommendations (p < 0.001). The ‘Good’ NK group had significantly higher intakes of all macronutrients (p < 0.05). Total NK% positively correlated with intakes of meat (r = 0.556, p = 0.011), cereals (r = 0.458, p = 0.042), dietary fat (r = 0.477, p = 0.034), vegetables (r = 0.487, p = 0.030), and alcoholic beverages (r = 0.541, p = 0.014). Supplement use was 68%. Players felt diet affected performance (94%) but 31% of them were unaware of any specific nutritional strategies. A healthy diet was perceived to be ‘balanced’ with ‘variety from all food groups. Lack of time for preparation was described as the main barrier to healthy eating.

Conclusions

Overall, players had poor NK, their fibre and carbohydrate intake was suboptimal, whereas saturated fat intake exceeded recommendations. Many lacked awareness of current sports nutrition guidelines. Further nutrition education may be needed to improve diet quality and aid performance goals.

Physicochemical, Nutritional, Microstructural, Surface and Sensory Properties of a Model High-Protein Bars Intended for Athletes Depending on the Type of Protein and Syrup Used

The main objective of this study was to investigate the possibility of using a combination of vegetable proteins from soybean (SOY), rice (RPC), and pea (PEA) with liquid syrups: tapioca fiber (TF), oligofructose (OF), and maltitol (ML) in the application of high-protein bars to determine the ability of these ingredients to modify the textural, physicochemical, nutritional, surface properties, microstructure, sensory parameters, and technological suitability. Ten variants of the samples were made, including the control sample made of whey protein concentrate (WPC) in combination with glucose syrup (GS). All combinations used had a positive effect on the hardness reduction of the bars after the storage period. Microstructure and the contact angle showed a large influence on the proteins and syrups used on the features of the manufactured products, primarily on the increased hydrophobicity of the surface of samples made of RPC + ML, SOY + OF, and RPC + TF. The combination of proteins and syrups used significantly reduced the sugar content of the product. Water activity (<0.7), dynamic viscosity (<27 mPas∙g/cm3), and sensory analysis (the highest final ratings) showed that bars made of RPC + OF, SOY + OF, and SOY + ML are characterized by a high potential for use in this type of products.

Barriers, Attitudes, and Influences Towards Dietary Intake Amongst Elite Rugby Union Players

Background: Dietary intakes can impact an athletes health and performance. Although evidence exists about what an athlete should eat, an athlete's nutritional intake is influenced by many factors. The limited research available suggests the main barriers preventing optimal nutritional intakes reported by athletes are lack of time, food accessibility, poor cooking skills, costs, taste, and time spent in “off-season.” Although these factors have been shown to influence dietary intake they remain relatively unexplored in Rugby Union. This study aimed to describe the nutritional influences on dietary intake amongst Rugby Union player's.

Methods: This was a qualitative study utilising in person individual interviews with all participants. Participants were Rugby Union players (n = 30) for either a Super Rugby franchise or one of their development squads in New Zealand. Participant's undertook recorded face to face interviews, which were later transcribed. A thematic approach was used to code the transcripts by the primary coder and the themes were subsequently evaluated by the research team.

Results: Childhood upbringing, organisational skills, time and food security also emerged as barriers. Body composition and sport nutrition knowledge emerged as both barriers and enablers to nutritional intake. Influence on performance was an enabler to optimal dietary intake. Fully professional rugby players have access to dietitians, whereas development and semi-professional rugby players only have limited if any access, and they were more likely to seek nutritional information via social media.

Conclusion: This study suggests a need for greater nutrition education at developmental levels with an emphasis on affordable food choices, meal planning and skills for interpreting online nutrition information.

“Food First but Not Always Food Only”: Recommendations for Using Dietary Supplements in Sport

The term “food first” has been widely accepted as the preferred strategy within sport nutrition, although there is no agreed definition of this and often limited consideration of the implications. We propose that food first should mean “where practically possible, nutrient provision should come from whole foods and drinks rather than from isolated food components or dietary supplements.” There are many reasons to commend a food first strategy, including the risk of supplement contamination resulting in anti-doping violations. However, a few supplements can enhance health and/or performance, and therefore a food only approach could be inappropriate. We propose six reasons why a food only approach may not always be optimal for athletes: (a) some nutrients are difficult to obtain in sufficient quantities in the diet, or may require excessive energy intake and/or consumption of other nutrients; (b) some nutrients are abundant only in foods athletes do not eat/like; (c) the nutrient content of some foods with established ergogenic benefits is highly variable; (d) concentrated doses of some nutrients are required to correct deficiencies and/or promote immune tolerance; (e) some foods may be difficult to consume immediately before, during or immediately after exercise; and (f) tested supplements could help where there are concerns about food hygiene or contamination. In these situations, it is acceptable for the athlete to consider sports supplements providing that a comprehensive risk minimization strategy is implemented. As a consequence, it is important to stress that the correct terminology should be “food first but not always food only.”

In-Season Nutrition Strategies and Recovery Modalities to Enhance Recovery for Basketball Players: A Narrative Review

Basketball players face multiple challenges to in-season recovery. The purpose of this article is to review the literature on recovery modalities and nutritional strategies for basketball players and practical applications that can be incorporated throughout the season at various levels of competition. Sleep, protein, carbohydrate, and fluids should be the foundational components emphasized throughout the season for home and away games to promote recovery. Travel, whether by air or bus, poses nutritional and sleep challenges, therefore teams should be strategic about packing snacks and fluid options while on the road. Practitioners should also plan for meals at hotels and during air travel for their players. Basketball players should aim for a minimum of 8 h of sleep per night and be encouraged to get extra sleep during congested schedules since back-to back games, high workloads, and travel may negatively influence night-time sleep. Regular sleep monitoring, education, and feedback may aid in optimizing sleep in basketball players. In addition, incorporating consistent training times may be beneficial to reduce bed and wake time variability. Hydrotherapy, compression garments, and massage may also provide an effective recovery modality to incorporate post-competition. Future research, however, is warranted to understand the influence these modalities have on enhancing recovery in basketball players. Overall, a strategic well-rounded approach, encompassing both nutrition and recovery modality strategies, should be carefully considered and implemented with teams to support basketball players' recovery for training and competition throughout the season.

Increased carbohydrate availability effects energy and nutrient periodisation of professional male athletes from the Australian Football League

This research aimed to explore the effect of increased carbohydrate availability intervention on energy intake and distribution in professional Australian Football athletes. Six 24-h energy and macronutrient intakes were quantified (n = 19 males; age 24 ± 4 y, stature 187 ± 8 cm, mass 87 ± 9 kg) using photographic food diaries and Foodworks analyses. Energy expenditure was estimated for the same period using GeneActiv accelerometers. During 3 control days, athletes had ad libitum access to food, while the 3 intervention days increased carbohydrate availability, through greater prompting and access to carbohydrate foods. Daily energy intake was higher during intervention (185 ± 40 kJ/kg/d) compared with control (172 ± 31 kJ/kg/d; p < 0.05) but remained below estimated expenditure, and carbohydrate intake was also greater with intervention (5.0 ± 0.2 g/kg/d) than control (4.0 ± 0.2 g/kg/d; p < 0.05). Expenditure was highest during the morning, which coincided with lowest intake on all days, while the intervention was associated with greater carbohydrate intake in the morning (0.6 g/kg, p < 0.05) compared with control. Increasing availability of carbohydrate during high-load training generated a modest increase in carbohydrate and energy intake, and the intervention was most effective in improving carbohydrate intake during mornings. Novelty: Increased access and provision of carbohydrate foods increased carbohydrate consumption and energy intake on high training load days. Daily distribution of energy intake can be modified through actively promoting carbohydrate consumption.

Portuguese Football Federation consensus statement 2020: nutrition and performance in football

Nutrition is an undeniable part of promoting health and performance among football (soccer) players. Nevertheless, nutritional strategies adopted in elite football can vary significantly depending on culture, habit and practical constraints and might not always be supported by scientific evidence. Therefore, a group of 28 Portuguese experts on sports nutrition, sports science and sports medicine sought to discuss current practices in the elite football landscape and review the existing evidence on nutritional strategies to be applied when supporting football players. Starting from understanding football's physical and physiological demands, five different moments were identified: preparing to play, match-day, recovery after matches, between matches and during injury or rehabilitation periods. When applicable, specificities of nutritional support to young athletes and female players were also addressed. The result is a set of practical recommendations that gathered consensus among involved experts, highlighting carbohydrates periodisation, hydration and conscious use of dietary supplements.

Possible Association of Energy Availability with Transferrin Saturation and Serum Iron during Summer Camp in Male Collegiate Rugby Players

Low energy availability (LEA) may persist in rugby players. However, timely assessment of energy balance is important but is difficult. Therefore, a practical index that reflects energy availability (EA) is essential. A total of 19 male college rugby players participated in a 2-week pre-season summer camp. Their blood sample was collected after overnight fast prior to (Pre), in the middle (Middle), and after (Post) the camp. Their physical activity in the first half of the camp was calculated using the additive factor method in the forwards (FW; numbers 1–8) and backs (BK; numbers 9–15). The participants were categorized as tight five (T5; numbers 1–5), back row (BR; numbers 6–8), and BK for analysis. All the participants lost weight during the camp (range: from −5.9% to −0.1%). Energy balance in the first half of the camp was negative. Transferrin saturation (TSAT) and serum iron levels significantly decreased to half, or even less, compared with the Pre levels at week 1 and remained low. The changes in TSAT and serum iron levels exhibited a significant positive correlation with the changes in body weight (R = 0.720; R = 0.627) and with energy intake (R = 0.410; R = 461) in T5. LEA occurs in rugby summer camp but is difficult to assess using weight change. Alternately, TSAT and serum iron levels after overnight fast may be better predictors of LEA.

Pro-Healthy Diet Properties and Its Determinants among Aging Masters Athletes

Qualitative dietary assessments are not common in aging athletes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate diet quality and its determinants among aging masters athletes. Eighty-six participants of the 8th World Masters Indoor Athletics Championships were enrolled in the study (age range 36-65 years). Three subgroups were distinguished to represent countries with different eating habits. Body composition was measured by bioelectrical impedance. Eating habits and diet quality were assessed using the Dietary Habits and Nutrition Beliefs Questionnaire (KomPAN®, Warszawa, Poland), and the Pro-healthy Diet Index (pHDI-10). Dietary quality determinants were identified by a multiple regression model conducted for each subgroup separately (Great Britain, France, and Poland). The results showed that none of the subgroups adhered to the reference intake of products with beneficial health outcomes. This was particularly noticeable in the insufficient consumption of whole grain products, dairy, and fish. The fish and vegetables consumption frequency significantly differentiated the eating habits of the studied groups. Diet quality determinants varied depending on the group. However, in each of them, fruit consumption was one of the components of a good-quality diet. The obtained results can be used by institutions providing health education among the elderly to develop an appropriate strategy aimed at changing inappropriate eating habits.

Dietary Macronutrient and Micronutrient Intake over a 7-Day Period in Female Varsity Ice Hockey Players

This study examined the energy, macronutrient, and micronutrient intakes of female ice hockey players over a 7-d period including game, practice, and rest days. Twenty-three female varsity players (19.0 ± 1.1 yr, 167.1 ± 6.5 cm, 67.0 ± 8.0 kg) volunteered for the study. Average total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) was estimated over the 7-day period. Average 7-day energy intake (EI) and TDEE were 2354 ± 353 and 2304 ± 204 kcal. The majority (n = 19) of athletes had an EI ≥ 90% of their estimated TDEE. Macronutrient intake was 52% carbohydrate (CHO), 32% fat, and 16% protein of total EI, although CHO intake was slightly below recommendations (5 g/kg BM/d) on game and practice (4.8 ± 1.4 and 4.5 g/kg BM/d) days. Game day EI was greater than practice and rest days. Recommended micronutrient intakes were not met by most athletes for iron, calcium, vitamin D, and potassium, and intakes were similar between game, practice, and rest days. In summary, the average EI for female varsity ice hockey players appeared adequate to meet their energy needs over a weekly cycle of game, practice, and rest days. However, these female athletes would benefit from increasing CHO intake on game and practice days and selecting foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals.

Mechanisms of Physical Fatigue and its Applications in Nutritional Interventions

Physical fatigue during exercise can be defined as an impairment of physical performance. Multiple factors have been found contributing to physical fatigue, including neurotransmitter-mediated defense action, insufficient energy supply, and induction of oxidative stress. These mechanistic findings provide a sound theoretical rationale for nutritional intervention since most of these factors can be modulated by nutrient supplementation. In this review, we summarize the current evidence regarding the functional role of nutrients supplementation in managing physical performance and propose the issues that need to be addressed for better utilization of nutritional supplementation approach to improve physical performance.

Competition Nutrition Practices of Elite Male Professional Rugby Union Players

Thirty-four elite male professional rugby union players from the New Zealand Super Rugby championship completed dietary intakes via the Snap-N-Send method during a seven-day competition week. Mean seven-day absolute energy intake was significantly higher for forwards (4606 ± 719 kcal·day⁻¹) compared to backs (3761 ± 618 kcal·day⁻¹; p < 0.01; d = 1.26). Forwards demonstrated significantly higher mean seven-day absolute macronutrient intakes compared to backs (p < 0.03; d = 0.86–1.58), but no significant differences were observed for mean seven-day relative carbohydrate (3.5 ± 0.8 vs. 3.7 ± 0.7 g·kg·day⁻¹), protein (2.5 ± 0.4 vs. 2.4 ± 0.5 g·kg·day⁻¹), and fat (1.8 ± 0.4 vs. 1.8 ± 0.5 g·kg·day⁻¹) intakes. Both forwards and backs reported their highest energy (5223 ± 864 vs. 4694 ± 784 kcal·day⁻¹) and carbohydrate (4.4 ± 1.2 vs. 5.1 ± 1.0 g·kg·day⁻¹) intakes on game day, with ≈62% of total calories being consumed prior to kick-off. Mean pre-game meal composition for all players was 1.4 ± 0.5 g·kg⁻¹ carbohydrate, 0.8 ± 0.2 g·kg⁻¹ protein, and 0.5 ± 0.2 g·kg⁻¹ fat. Players fell short of daily sports nutrition guidelines for carbohydrate and appeared to “eat to intensity” by increasing or decreasing energy and carbohydrate intake based on the training load. Despite recommendations and continued education, many rugby players select what would be considered a “lower” carbohydrate intake. Although these intakes appear adequate to be a professional RU player, further research is required to determine optimal dietary intakes.

The Effects of Pre-Game Carbohydrate Intake on Running Performance and Substrate Utilisation during Simulated Gaelic Football Match Play

BACKGROUND

Previous research has reported that elite Gaelic football players' carbohydrate (CHO) intakes are sub-optimal, especially, in the lead up to competitive matches. Despite clear decrements in running performance across elite Gaelic football matches, there are no studies that have investigated nutrition interventions on match-related Gaelic football performance. The aim of this study was to determine whether a higher-CHO diet in line with sports nutrition guidelines can improve Gaelic football-related performance compared to lower CHO intakes previously observed in Gaelic footballers.

METHODS

Twelve Gaelic football players completed a Gaelic football simulation protocol (GFSP) on two occasions after consuming a high-CHO diet (7 g·kg-1) (HCHO) or an energy-matched lower-CHO diet (3.5 g·kg-1) (L-CHO) for 48 h. Movement demands and heart rate were measured using portable global positioning systems devices. Countermovement jump height (CMJ) and repeated-sprint ability (RSA) were measured throughout each trial. Expired respiratory gases were collected throughout the trial using a portable gas analyser. Blood samples were taken at rest, half-time, and post-simulation.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in total distance (p = 0.811; η2 = 0.005) or high-speed running distance (HSRD) covered between both trials. However, in the second half of the HCHO trial, HSRD was significantly greater compared to the second half of the LCHO trial (p = 0.015). Sprint distance covered during GFSP was significantly greater in HCHO (8.1 ± 3.5 m·min-1) compared with LCHO (6.4 ± 3.2 m·min-1) (p = 0.011; η2 = 0.445). RSA performance (p < 0.0001; η2 = 0.735) and lower body power (CMJ) (p < 0.0001; η2 = 0.683) were significantly greater during the HCHO trial compared to LCHO. Overall CHO oxidation rates were significantly greater under HCHO conditions compared to LCHO (3.3 ± 0.5 vs. 2.7 ± 0.6 g·min-1) (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.798). Blood lactate concentrations were significantly higher during HCHO trial versus LCHO (p = 0.026; η2 = 0.375). There were no significant differences in plasma glucose, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs), and glycerol concentration between trials. In both trials, all blood metabolites were significantly elevated at half-time and post-trial compared to pre-trial.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that a higher-CHO diet can reduce declines in physical performance during simulated Gaelic football match play.

A Qualitative Investigation of Factors Influencing the Dietary Intakes of Professional Australian Football Players

(1) Background: Many professional Australian Football (AF) players do not meet recommended sports nutrition guidelines despite having access to nutrition advice. There are a range of factors that can influence players′ ability to meet their nutrition goals and awareness of the barriers players face is essential to ensure that dietary advice translates into practice. Therefore, this qualitative research study aimed to explore the factors influencing AF players’ dietary intakes and food choice. (2) Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve professional male AF players. (3) Results: Less experienced players restricted their carbohydrate intake to meet body composition goals, particularly during preseason and surrounding body composition assessment. During the competition season players had a greater focus on performance and placed more emphasis on carbohydrate intake in the lead up to matches. Players felt nutrition goals were easier to achieve when dietary choices were supported by their families and peers. One-on-one consultations provided by a sports dietitian were players′ preferred mode of nutrition intervention. Individualized nutrition advice is required for less experienced AF players who may be vulnerable to unsustainable dietary habits. Experienced AF players can support junior teammates by promoting positive team culture related to body composition, nutrition and performance.

How Does the Dietary Intake of Female Field-Based Team Sport Athletes Compare to Dietary Recommendations for Health and Performance? A Systematic Literature Review

Field-based team sports present large energetic demands given their intermittent high-intensity nature. Current evidence suggests that the dietary intake of female athletes may be insufficient to meet such demands, resulting in negative consequences for athletic performance and health. The primary aim of this review was to therefore assess the adequacy of dietary intake of female field-based team sport athletes when compared to dietary recommendations. A systematic search of databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, and OpenGrey, was performed from the earliest record available until July 2020, obtaining an initial total of 2588 articles. To be included within the final review, articles were required to provide a quantitative assessment of baseline dietary intake specific to the target population. A total of 20 studies (n = 462) met the full eligibility criteria. A majority reported that the dietary intake of female field-based team sport athletes was insufficient in overall energy (2064 ± 309 kcal·day^-1), carbohydrate (4.3 ± 1.2 g·kg·day^-1), and iron intake (13.6 ± 6.2 mg·day^-1) when compared to recommendations. Future research is required to establish why female team sport athletes consistently demonstrate deficient dietary practices, and to explore the potential negative consequences of this.

The ENIGMA sports injury working group:- an international collaboration to further our understanding of sport-related brain injury

Sport-related brain injury is very common, and the potential long-term effects include a wide range of neurological and psychiatric symptoms, and potentially neurodegeneration. Around the globe, researchers are conducting neuroimaging studies on primarily homogenous samples of athletes. However, neuroimaging studies are expensive and time consuming, and thus current findings from studies of sport-related brain injury are often limited by small sample sizes. Further, current studies apply a variety of neuroimaging techniques and analysis tools which limit comparability among studies. The ENIGMA Sports Injury working group aims to provide a platform for data sharing and collaborative data analysis thereby leveraging existing data and expertise. By harmonizing data from a large number of studies from around the globe, we will work towards reproducibility of previously published findings and towards addressing important research questions with regard to diagnosis, prognosis, and efficacy of treatment for sport-related brain injury. Moreover, the ENIGMA Sports Injury working group is committed to providing recommendations for future prospective data acquisition to enhance data quality and scientific rigor.

[The role of nutrition in the recovery of a basketball player]

Introduction

Introduction: very few works offer a practical solution to understand the nutritional requirements of current basketball. This work offers a theoretical-practical proposal. Objectives: to analyze the fatigue produced during a basketball game and offer a practical solution to accelerate recovery through nutrition. Methods: a search of the PubMed bibliographic database for reviews from the last 15 years and original articles from the last 5 years on basketball. Results: type of nutrient and food supplements are essential for a quicker recovery, in addition to their timing and dose. Conclusions: nutrition before, during and after a game or a high-intensity training session plays a fundamental role in the recovery of the basketball player.

A Survey on Dietary Supplement Consumption in Amateur and Professional Rugby Players

Purpose: the aim of the present study was to analyse the pattern of dietary supplements (DS) consumption on federated rugby players, including the analysis of differences based on the sex and competitive level (professional vs. amateurs). Material and methods: 144 rugby players (83 male and 61 female), of whom 69 were professionals and 75 amateurs, were recruited for the study. All the participants filled out a specific questionnaire about DS consumption including questions related to the consumption of DS and their effects on sport performance and health status. Results: 65.3% of participants declared consuming at least one DS, with a higher prevalence in males than females (77.1% vs. 49.2%) and in professionals thanin amateur players (79.7% vs. 52.0%). The main reason for consumption was to enhance sport performance (62.3%) with differences only based on sex (74.3% males vs. 43.2% females). The most common purchase sites were the Internet (45.6%) and specialised stores (39.8%). As to the moment of ingestion, professionals did this most frequently during competition and training (56.4% vs. 28.2%), whereas amateur players did so only during competition (20.5% vs. 3.6%). Moreover, professional player intake most frequently in post-exercise (65.5% vs. 35.9%), whereas amateur during pre-exercise (30.8% vs. 5.5%). The DS most consumed included whey protein (44%), caffeine (42%), sports drinks (38%), energy bars (34%) and creatine monohydrate (31%), with a higher prevalence in male and professional players of whey protein and creatine monohydrate. Conclusions: The main reason for DS consumption is for enhancing sports performance). Professional players more frequently purchase them on the Internet and consume DS during training and competition period and in the post-exercise, whereas amateur players consume during competition and pre-exercise. Related to the main form of DS consumption, it is observed that a moderate consumption of DS could be considered ergogenic, such as whey protein, sport bar and creatine, while an absence of other DS could be considered ergogenic.

Acute Effects of Brief Mindfulness Intervention Coupled with Carbohydrate Ingestion to Re-Energize Soccer Players: A Randomized Crossover Trial

Background: This field experiment investigated the acute effects of brief mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) coupled with carbohydrate (CHO) intake on players' recovery from half-time break in a simulated soccer competition. Methods: In a single-blinded randomized crossover experiment, 14 male players received 3 treatments (Control: non-carbohydrate solution + travelling introduction audio; CHO: CHO-electrolyte solution + travelling introduction audio; and CHO_M: CHO-electrolyte solution + MBI) during simulated half-time breaks. Vertical jump, sprint performance, mindfulness level, rate of perceived exertion, muscle pain, mental fatigue, blood glucose, and lactate were measured immediately before, during, and after the exercise. Results: (1) MBI significantly increased participants' mindfulness level (Control vs. CHO_M, p < 0.01; CHO vs. CHO_M, p < 0.01) and decreased mental fatigue for CHO_M condition (pre vs. post, p < 0.01); (2) participants in the CHO_M condition performed better in the repeated sprint tests than in the Control and CHO condition (Control vs. CHO_M, p = 0.02; CHO vs. CHO_M, p = 0.02). Conclusion: Findings of this study provide preliminary evidence of the positive effect of MBI coupled with CHO ingestion on athletes' recovery from fatigue in the early stage of the second half of a game.

Effects of Nutrition Education Interventions in Team Sport Players. A Systematic Review

Considering nutrition education interventions have been frequently implemented in team sport athletes and have shown promising results, this study aimed to summarize the effects of nutrition education interventions on eating habits, nutrition knowledge, body composition, and physical performance in team sport athletes. A systematic review was conducted using the following databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science and SPORTDiscus. A total of 14 studies met the inclusion criteria for the review. The methodological quality of included studies was evaluated, and each study was assessed according to the analyzed variables (i.e., eating habits, nutrition knowledge, body composition, and physical performance). Most studies showed improvements in or maintenance of variables used to indicate eating habits, nutrition knowledge, and body composition. However, limited studies examined the effect of nutrition education interventions on physical performance, with existing studies demonstrating disparate results. These findings suggest implementation of nutrition education interventions in team sport athletes could be an effective strategy to improve their eating habits, nutrition knowledge, and body composition. Due to the heterogeneity across the included studies regarding sport modality, competition level, age, and sex of the athletes investigated, as well as the intervention type adopted (i.e., online or face-to-face), it is difficult to establish optimal nutrition education interventions for each analyzed variable.

Assessment of the Dietary Intake of High-Rank Professional Male Football Players during a Preseason Training Week

A well-balanced diet is one of the main factors that may play a supportive role in enhancing acute training stimuli in optimal training adaptation. The aim of the present study was to examine the energy and macro- and micronutrient intake including and excluding supplements among top-level Polish football players during one week of the general preparatory period. In addition, the study looked at whether athletes consume carbohydrates in recommended amounts, depending on the completed training sessions. A total of 26 professional football players were included in the study. The preseason dietary intake was assessed using a 7-day estimated food record. The energy value of the diet and the amounts of the dietary ingredients were assessed using the software Dieta 6.0. The average consumption of energy, vitamin B₂, vitamin C, vitamin E, folate, and calcium was lower than recommendations, and average intake of sodium and potassium was higher than the norm in the diets of the athletes. The results of this study do not confirm the justification for adding protein preparations to diets of the studied players. Furthermore, football players dietary carbohydrate intake was relatively low in comparison to requirements based on training loads. Based on our results we conclude that further work is necessary to reinforce education about nutritional habits and adjust nutritional strategies to individual needs to enhance athletic performance.

UEFA expert group statement on nutrition in elite football. Current evidence to inform practical recommendations and guide future research

Football is a global game which is constantly evolving, showing substantial increases in physical and technical demands. Nutrition plays a valuable integrated role in optimising performance of elite players during training and match-play, and maintaining their overall health throughout the season. An evidence-based approach to nutrition emphasising, a 'food first' philosophy (ie, food over supplements), is fundamental to ensure effective player support. This requires relevant scientific evidence to be applied according to the constraints of what is practical and feasible in the football setting. The science underpinning sports nutrition is evolving fast, and practitioners must be alert to new developments. In response to these developments, the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has gathered experts in applied sports nutrition research as well as practitioners working with elite football clubs and national associations/federations to issue an expert statement on a range of topics relevant to elite football nutrition: (1) match day nutrition, (2) training day nutrition, (3) body composition, (4) stressful environments and travel, (5) cultural diversity and dietary considerations, (6) dietary supplements, (7) rehabilitation, (8) referees and (9) junior high-level players. The expert group provide a narrative synthesis of the scientific background relating to these topics based on their knowledge and experience of the scientific research literature, as well as practical experience of applying knowledge within an elite sports setting. Our intention is to provide readers with content to help drive their own practical recommendations. In addition, to provide guidance to applied researchers where to focus future efforts.

Season Suspension and Summer Extension: Unique Opportunity for Professional Team-Sport Athletes and Support Staff During and Following the COVID-19 Crisis

Given the emergence of the COVID-19 outbreak, the official declaration of a global pandemic by the World Health Organization, and its consequential disruptions on the professional team sports landscape, it is the main objective of this brief opinion to help ensure that professional team-sport athletes and support staff remain aware as a society of some of the potential pitfalls - illustrated via negative but plausible detrimental scenarios. Finally, new ideas are introduced and evidence-based hypotheses are presented on the following five themes: periodization, exploration, virtual (at-home) training, player monitoring, and continued education, including return-to-competition preparation strategies following these exceptional times of uncharted territory.

Which are the Nutritional Supplements Used by Beach-Volleyball Athletes? A Cross-Sectional Study at the Italian National Championship

Beach volleyball is an intermittent team sport played under high temperature and humidity. Given that some nutritional supplements can enhance sports performance, this study aimed to evaluate the quantity and the heterogeneity of the nutritional supplementation practices of amateur (n = 69) and professional (n = 19) beach volley athletes competing in the Italian National Championship; an online form was used to collect data about the supplementation habits. The latent class analysis was used to find sub-groups characterised by different habits regarding supplements consumption. The most frequently used supplements (more than once a week) are vitamins B and C (39.2% of athletes), protein (46.8%), and caffeine (36.9%). The latent class analysis revealed three different sub-groups of athletes: the first class (56.7%) included athletes who were used to take very few supplements, the second class (17.0%) was characterised by higher consumption of supplements and the third class (26.2%) was in the middle between the others two. Groups were characterised not only by the quantity but also by the category of supplements used. Our results highlighted a high heterogeneity in supplementation habits. A pragmatic approach to supplements and sports foods is needed in the face of the evidence that some products can usefully contribute to enhancing performance.

Individualized Breakfast Programs or Glycogen Super-Compensation: Which Is the Better Performing Strategy? Insights from an Italian Soccer Referees Cohort

The role of soccer referees has grown in importance in the last decades, as has attention to their performance, which may be influenced and improved with specific and evolved training programs. Today, multiple specialists are working as a team in order to develop effective training programs. Moreover, for athletes, it is becoming more and more important to be attentive to nutrition. By considering such items, in this study, we aimed to investigate the nutritional habits of a group of referees belonging to the Italian Soccer Referees' Association (on behalf of AIA-FIGC). Our main aim was to spread a "culture of nutrition" in refereeing, starting with a survey on referees' breakfast attitudes and in order to disseminate such a "culture", we chose top-level elite referees who were younger subjects (despite the average 4 years' experience). Therefore, we enrolled 31 subjects (aged 22.74 ± 1.79, BMI 22.30 ± 1.53) and asked them about their breakfast habits. Then, for measuring their performance, we used the conventional fitness test named Yo-Yo (YYiR1), performed in three different sessions (test 1, test 2, test 3). Test 1 was carried out without any nutritional indications, test 2 was given after individualized breakfast suggestions by a designed dietician, and test 3 after an individualized glycogen super-compensation strategy. The Wilcoxon statistical analysis indicates that following an individualized breakfast strategy may enhance referees' performance (p < 0.0001), whereas no significant effects were observed with the glycogen super-compensation option. However, further studies will be necessary to better address this topic and clarify whether high-carbohydrates (high-CHO) intake may be useful in other sports.

Assessment of Dietary Under-Reporting in Italian College Team Sport Athletes

BACKGROUND

Nutrition is an important factor for sports performance and the assessment of dietary intakes in athletes can correct unhealthy eating habits. However, dietary assessment may be biased due to misreporting. The aim of our study was to investigate the occurrence of misreporting in a sample of collegiate team sport athletes.

METHODS

A total of 50 athletes participated. Each athlete filled in food records for seven days. Reported energy intake (EI) was considered in relation to the predicted basal metabolic rate (BMR) and expressed as the ratio EI/ BMR. All participants with EI/BMRestd ≤1.23 were classified as "low energy reporters" (LER), and those with an EI/BMRestd ratio >1.23 were classified as "adequate energy reporters" (AER).

RESULTS

According to cut-off values for under-reporting, 28 out of 50 athletes (56%) were classified as LER. The LER (16 M/12 F) had significantly higher BMI (23.17 ± 3.46 kg/m2 compared to 21.41 ± 1.91 kg/m2; p = 0.038) than the AER. The EI/kg fat free mass (FFM) was significantly lower in LER than the AER (33.34 ± 6.56 kcal/FFM compared to 48.51 ± 8.59 kcal/FFM, p < 0.0001). Nutrient intake was also significantly different between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that under-reporting of energy intake by collegiate team sport athletes may occur frequently and needs to be taken into consideration in the interpretation of nutrient intake.

Dietary Fuels in Athletic Performance

Focusing on daily nutrition is important for athletes to perform and adapt optimally to exercise training. The major roles of an athlete's daily diet are to supply the substrates needed to cover the energy demands for exercise, to ensure quick recovery between exercise bouts, to optimize adaptations to exercise training, and to stay healthy. The major energy substrates for exercising skeletal muscles are carbohydrate and fat stores. Optimizing the timing and type of energy intake and the amount of dietary macronutrients is essential to ensure peak training and competition performance, and these strategies play important roles in modulating skeletal muscle adaptations to endurance and resistance training. In this review, recent advances in nutritional strategies designed to optimize exercise-induced adaptations in skeletal muscle are discussed, with an emphasis on mechanistic approaches, by describing the physiological mechanisms that provide the basis for different nutrition regimens.

Dietary Intakes of Professional and Semi-Professional Team Sport Athletes Do Not Meet Sport Nutrition Recommendations-A Systematic Literature Review

Background: to develop sport-specific and effective dietary advice, it is important to understand the dietary intakes of team sport athletes. This systematic literature review aims to (1) assess the dietary intakes of professional and semi-professional team sport athletes and (2) to identify priority areas for dietetic intervention. Methods: an extensive search of MEDLINE, Sports DISCUS, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Scopus databases in April–May 2018 was conducted and identified 646 studies. Included studies recruited team sport, competitive (i.e., professional or semi-professional) athletes over the age of 18 years. An assessment of dietary intake in studies was required and due to the variability of data (i.e., nutrient and food group data) a meta-analysis was not undertaken. Two independent authors extracted data using a standardised process. Results: 21 (n = 511) studies that assessed dietary intake of team sport athletes met the inclusion criteria. Most reported that professional and semi-professional athletes’ dietary intakes met or exceeded recommendations during training and competition for protein and/or fat, but not energy and carbohydrate. Limitations in articles include small sample sizes, heterogeneity of data and existence of underreporting. Conclusions: this review highlights the need for sport-specific dietary recommendations that focus on energy and carbohydrate intake. Further exploration of factors influencing athletes’ dietary intakes including why athletes’ dietary intakes do not meet energy and/or carbohydrate recommendations is required.

Nutritional Intake, Sports Nutrition Knowledge and Energy Availability in Female Australian Rules Football Players

This study aimed to assess nutritional intake, sports nutrition knowledge and risk of Low Energy Availability (LEA) in female Australian rules football players. Victorian Football League Women’s competition (VFLW) players (n = 30) aged 18–35 (weight: 64.5 kg ± 8.0; height: 168.2 cm ± 7.6) were recruited from Victoria, Australia. Nutritional intake was quantified on training days using the Automated 24 h Dietary Assessment Tool (ASA24-Australia), and sports nutrition knowledge was measured by the 88-item Sports Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire (SNKQ). The risk of LEA was assessed using the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q). Daily mean carbohydrate intake in the current investigation was 3 g⋅kg⁻¹⋅d⁻¹, therefore, below the minimum carbohydrate recommendation for moderate exercise of approximately one hour per day (5–7 g⋅kg⁻¹⋅d⁻¹) and for moderate to intense exercise for 1–3 h per day (6–10 g⋅kg⁻¹⋅d⁻¹) for 96.3% and 100% of players, respectively. Daily mean protein intake was 1.5 g⋅kg⁻¹⋅d⁻¹, therefore, consistent with recommendations (1.2–2.0 g⋅kg⁻¹⋅d⁻¹) for 77.8% of players. Daily mean calcium intake was 924.8 mg⋅d⁻¹, therefore, below recommendations (1000 mg⋅d⁻¹) for 65.5% of players, while mean iron intake was 12.2 mg⋅d⁻¹, also below recommendations (18 mg⋅d⁻¹) for 100% of players. Players answered 54.5% of SNKQ questions correctly, with the lowest scores observed in the section on supplements. Risk of LEA was evident in 30% of players, with no differences in carbohydrate (p = 0.238), protein (p = 0.296), fat (p = 0.490) or energy (p = 0.971) intakes between players at risk of LEA and those not at risk. The results suggest that female Australian rules football players have an inadequate intake of carbohydrate and calcium and low sports nutrition knowledge. Further investigation to assess the risk of LEA using direct measures is required.