Elite athletes' characteristics in esthetic sports related to body composition, physiology, bone mineral density and nutrition

Abstract

Aim: Nutritional deficiencies occur in elite athletes in aesthetic branches who suffer from intensive training programs and strict weight control. Increased disability, the weakening of the immune system, menstrual disorders and increased risk of bone fracture due to abnormal bone mineralization impair the quality of life and threaten the health of athletes. The purpose of this study was to determine body composition, nutrition and hydration status, bone mineral density levels and some physiological parameters in athletes interested in aesthetic sports.

Material and Methods: The study was participated by a total of 15 healthy artistic gymnasts, ice skaters and ballet dancers aged 18 and over and 10 individuals of similar age and physical qualities as the control group. The body composition, resting metabolic rate, hydration status, bone mineral density, nutritional habit and menstruation period of the athletes were assessed and some health parameters in blood about bone metabolism, anaemia and infection were evaluated.

Results: It was found that the athletes’ daily energy consumption and dietary intake of vitamin-mineral levels, vitamin D, Ca and Fe, are inadequate for especially female athletes. The fat ratio was higher and carbohydrate ratio was lower than the recommended daily energy distribution of athletes, 2/3 of athletes were dehydrated. The athletes did not have menstrual irregularities and eating disorder behaviours. The highest bone mineral density was in athletes, especially in gymnastics, while the lowest was in the control group. 

Conclusion: Although the athletes have higher values than the controls, due to insufficient energy, low carbohydrate and calcium intake and low bone density of female athletes, especially female athletes are suggested keeping under control for risk of female athlete triad.

Keywords

• Bone mineral density
• Female athlete triad
• Ice skating
• Ballet
• Dehydration
• Weight control

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