NUTRIENT INTAKE OF FEMALE ELITE ATHLETES SUFFERING FROM EATING DISORDERS

This study assessed the nutrient intake and eating behavior in Norwegi an female elite athletes suffering from eating disorders (ED) who met the criteria for anorexia nervosa (AN), anorexia athletica (AA), or bu limia nervosa (BN). The subjects included 7 AN, 43 AA, 42 BN, and 30 c ontrols. Three-day and 24-hr food records were used to assess energy a nd nutrient intake. Results revealed that a significant number of AN a nd AA athletes have diets too low in energy and nutrients, the mean in take for energy and CHO being lower than recommended for active female s. A significant number did not reach the protein level recommended fo r athletes. In addition, there were low intakes of several micronutrie nts, most notably calcium, vitamin D, and iron. The energy and nutriti onal inadequacy, combined with the use of purging, are of major concer n since the athletes in this study were relatively young. It is unknow n whether the abnormal eating pattern is a consequence of ED or is typ ical of top level athletes.