Honors Projects

Quinn MurphyFollow

Abstract

Background: Based on previous research, athletes have low knowledge when it comes to nutrition. This puts them at a greater risk for poor dietary choices that could ultimately impact their ability to perform optimally, increase fatigue, and increase the risk of injuries. The purpose of this study was to determine if after taking a nutrition education class, the athletes would better fuel their bodies and improve their perceived fatigue levels.

Methods: Initially, five BGSU club runners were recruited to participate. They were asked to track five sequential days of food and drink intake and the level of daily fatigue (consisting of four weekdays and one weekend; R1). Once these data were collected, a nutrition education class was provided by Food and Nutrition graduate students. After the presentation, the participants were asked to track an additional five sequential days of food and drink intake and level of daily fatigue (R2).

Results: Data from the ASA24 dietary analysis show that participants met their energy needs overall (100% R1; 90% R2); however, one participant did not meet their needs (85% R1; 67% R2). All participants were below estimated carbohydrate needs (39% R1; 42% R2) and vitamin D (16% R1; 39% R2) during the study. The fatigue scale results showed increased average fatigue levels for all participants (4.6 R1; 5.9 R2).

Conclusions: Contrary to expectations, our findings indicated that a one-time group nutrition education session did not benefit the athletes as was expected. Additionally, the athletes' fatigue levels rose after the educational session, contradicting previous research expectations. More time after the presentation, changing the time of the semester, or providing individual education may have yielded a more positive result.

Department

Honors Program

Major

Exercise Science

First Advisor

Dr. Hamady

First Advisor Department

Food and Nutrition

Second Advisor

Dr. Keylock

Second Advisor Department

Exercise Science

Publication Date

Spring 4-22-2024

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