INTRODUCTION:
Gyms environment encourages the spreading of stereotyped esthetic patterns, leading many practitioners to develop inadequate eating habits, and, in many occasions, use nutritional supplements. There is also lack of information and orientation about ideal nutrition, which can damage sport performance.
OBJECTIVE:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of feed supplements, food consumption and nutritional knowledge of physical exercise practitioners from the city of Pelotas, RS, Brazil.
METHODS:
The study group was composed of 60 individuals who answered a questionnaire and a 24 hour-memo. The mean age was 23.28 ± 3.37 years old and the great majority was composed by students and professionals with complete higher education (83.3%).
RESULTS:
It was verified that 31.7% of the individuals used some kind of feed supplement, mostly men (78.9%). Amino acids or concentrated protein were the most consumed. The most frequently mentioned source was the physical education instructors, followed by self-prescription. The analyses have shown diets to be hypoglycemic, hyperproteic and hyperlipidic. There was a statistically significant relationship between the use of feed supplements and protein consumption above the recommended percentage (p=0,003). The population has demonstrated a moderate knowledge regarding basic concepts on nutrition and difficulty in relating food and its source.
CONCLUSION:
It should be highlighted the need of having nutritional orientation in order to help sports practitioners achieve their goals as well as clarifying doubts, aiming a better sport performance with the benefits of an adequate nutrition
macronutrients; exercise; food habits
