NUTRIENT INTAKE OF FEMALE ELITE ATHLETES SUFFERING FROM EATING DISORDERS

Authors
Citation
J. Sundgotborgen, NUTRIENT INTAKE OF FEMALE ELITE ATHLETES SUFFERING FROM EATING DISORDERS, INT J SP NU, 3(4), 1993, pp. 431-442
Citations number
NO
Categorie Soggetti
Nutrition & Dietetics
Journal title
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SPORT NUTRITION
ISSN journal
10501606 → ACNP
Volume
3
Issue
4
Year of publication
1993
Pages
431 - 442
Database
ISI
SICI code
1050-1606(1993)3:4<431:NIOFEA>2.0.ZU;2-I
Abstract
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.