Dietary intake of Turkish gymnast and non-gymnast children

Aim: The aim of the present study is to compare the energy and nutrient intake of rhythmic and artistic gymnasts with a control group that is composed of healthy non-gymnasts. Methods: Seventy-seven gymnasts (29 male children and 48 female children) and a control group of age- and sex-matched non-gymnasts were included in the study. Data were collected using a questionnaire. To determine participants' energy and nutrients intake, a 24-hour recall was administered. Participants' bodyweight and height were measured, while body mass index was assessed by z-scores. Mean, standard deviations and daily reference intake ratios of energy and nutrients are presented in tables according to participant's gender. The software SPSS 15.0 was used for data analysis. Results: There was no significant difference between mean body mass index for the gymnast and control group in male children (P > 0.05), while there was a significant statistical difference between the gymnast and control group in female children (P < 0.05). Both male and female gymnasts had low energy intake and gained energy from fat and proteins rather than carbohydrates. Among both genders, gymnasts' intakes of vitamin E, niacin, thiamine, folate, potassium, calcium and iron intakes were inadequate. Conclusions: This study is the first large-sample study determining dietary intake of gymnasts in Turkey. According to the results, nutrition education should be given to gymnasts and their parents. Nutritional status should be monitored and evaluated by a dietitian.