Introduction
Sports nutrition and body composition are important factors for athletic performance. Street running has become popular worldwide, especially in the last decade. Street runners require a nutritionally balanced diet and nutrition knowledge to maintain an adequate nutritional profile.
Objective
To assess dietary adequacy, the anthropometric profile and nutritional knowledge of street runners.
Methods
Adult street runners of both genders (n=51) were interviewed about nutrition knowledge, evaluated by a standardized modified questionnaire. Assessment of food intake was obtained from two 24-hour recalls on non-consecutive days and the analysis of macronutrients, micronutrients and dietary fiber adequacy. Anthropometric evaluation was determined by body mass index and body fat percentage.
Results
The majority of male runners had adequate body fat percentage and underweight was observed in about 30% of men and women. Dietary inadequacies of macronutrients were characterized by insufficient intake of carbohydrate (59.6% of individuals) and high protein intake (32.7%). Fiber, calcium, thiamin, riboflavin and niacin were consumed below recommended levels, especially among men. Nutritional knowledge was associated with adequate micronutrient intake. Women had better level of basic knowledge and higher prevalence of adequate dietary intake.
Conclusion
Despite of high nutrition knowledge and adequate anthropometric profile demonstrated by street runners, the majority showed eating habits and nutrition inappropriate for sports performance.
running; food intake; nutrients; anthropometry
