A study of dietary patterns of elite Australian football players
Burke, L.M.; Read, R.S.
Canadian Journal of Sport Sciences 13(1): 15-19
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0833-1235 PMID: 3359355 Document Number: 318709
This report of dietary patterns of 56 elite Australian Rules football players included an anthropometric profile, training information, and measurements of haemoglobin and blood lipids. Dietary practices for training and game preparation were investigated by interview and food diary. Analysis of training diets showed a mean energy intake of 14.2 MJ/day (0.17 MJ/kg daily). Mean protein intake was 126 g/day (1.5 g/kg daily). The proportions of dietary energy contributed by the macronutrients were carbohydrate 44%; fat 37%; protein 15%; and alcohol 4%. Mean daily intake of selected vitamins and minerals from food sources was: retinol activity 1439 mg; thiamin 1.7 mg; riboflavin 2.8 mg; niacin equivalents 45.1 mg; vitamin C 139 mg; iron 19.6 mg; calcium 1016 mg. Carbohydrate intake was considered low, but overall intake of nutrients studied was adequate.