Effects of 3 month dietary intervention on nutritional & fitness profiles of 8-21y old competitive swimmers

Abstract

Aim: To study the effects of 3 months dietary intervention on Nutrition Knowledge, Pre-During-Post Swim Nutritional Intake & Fitness profiles of 8-21 y old Competitive Swimmers.Methods: 29 competitive swimmers were selected via purposive sampling. Nutrition knowledge survey was administered, 3d diet recall was analyzed for pre-during-post swim meal intake and fitness profile was assessed (body composition, swimming performance and fitness tests). Individualized diet plan (CHO: 5-7g/Kg/BW/d, Protein: 1.2-1.4g/kg/BW/d, Fat: 20-35% and pre-training: low GI, moderate protein, low fat, during: isotonic drink/water, post training: high GI, high protein, low fat) was prescribed & monitored weekly for 3 mo. Six Nutrition education sessions were arranged, post which all above parameters were re-assessed. Observations: Significant improvements in macronutrient intake and quality of pre-during-post swim meals were observed post intervention. Mean swimming performance of all swimmers improved by 1.56 ± 2.58 seconds. Results: Nutrition knowledge score improved significantly (Paired t two tailed = -5.97, p=0.000). In males, significant improvements were noted in critical swim speed (Paired Z two tailed = -2.93, p=0.003), sit & reach (Paired Z two tailed = -2.65, p=0.008), sit ups (Paired Z two tailed = -2.99, p=0.003), squats (Paired Z two tailed = -3.06, p=0.002), right (Paired Z two tailed = -0.80, p=0.421) and left (Paired Z two tailed = -2.76, p=0.006) hand grip strength; for females, in sit & reach (Paired Z two tailed = -2.02, p=0.043), push-ups (Paired Z two tailed = -2.0.3, p=0.042) & squats (Paired Z two tailed = -2.02, p=0.043). No significant improvements in body composition were observed. Conclusion: The 3 month dietary intervention program improved nutrition knowledge, composition & nutrient intake of pre-during-post swim meals, swimming performance and fitness profile of 8-21y old competitive swimmers.