An evaluation of diets in the Polish national judo team during the pre-competition weight loss period

Background & Study Aim: Diets of professional athletes, especially during the pre-competition weight reduction period, may have a significant impact on the sport results and the athletes' health. The aim of the study was the energy value and the intakes of nutrients, minerals, vitamins, dietary fibre and water in daily food rations in the representatives of the Polish national judo team during the pre-competition weight loss period. Material & Methods: A total of 30 elite judoists (15 women and 15 men) were included in the study. They engaged in sport professionally for an average 11.9 +/- 3.5 years. The energy value of the diet and the amounts of the dietary ingredients were assessed on the basis of food diaries using the software Dieta 5.0. Results: The mean daily intakes of the dietary components (energy, carbohydrates, dietary fibre, proteins, fats, water, minerals, and vitamins) was significantly different than the norms recommended for athletes. We found that judoists consumed less energy, carbohydrate, fat, water, potassium, calcium, iron, iodine, vitamin: D, C, E, B2 compare to recommended norm. On the other hand, we found that dietary intake of sodium, phosphorus, vitamin: B3, B6, B12 was significantly higher than recommended norm. Conclusions: The energy and macronutrient intakes in the pre-competition period should be monitored closely to avoid excessive imbalances and the consequent reduction in performance and/or development of health problems.