Analysis of Dietary Micronutrient Intake of NCAA Track and Field Athletes

Introduction: Micronutrients are critical to optimal physiological function of the human body’s overall health and homeostasis. An athlete’s performance and recovery may be inhibited by micronutrient deficiencies1. This study analyzed the micronutrient consumption of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I Collegiate Track and Field athletes. Methods: Thirty-seven track and field athletes, 15 females and 22 males participated. Multiple 24-hr recalls were collected, including weekdays and weekends, and analyzed using Nutrition Data System for Research (NDSR) to obtain dietary micronutrient intakes. Average intakes were compared to the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for each micronutrient. Pearson Chi Squared tests were used to assess correlations amongst the participant characteristics, gender, age, race, track event group, and residence. Results: Many participants under-consumed micronutrients, most commonly magnesium, calcium, and vitamin D. Significant correlations were found between gender and iron intake, race and magnesium intake, and residence and calcium intake. Results indicated a significant relationship between gender and dietary iron intake (p < 0.001), residence and calcium consumption (p < .05), and the race and magnesium intake (p < .05). Males were more likely to meet the iron RDA, and Caucasians had higher magnesium intake than African Americans. Those living on-campus were more likely to meet calcium requirements than off-campus. Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for dietary education and the importance of assessing micronutrient intake. While the impact of these nutrients on athletic performance justifies such efforts, their broader implications for overall health reinforce the necessity of thorough dietary analysis. Athletic programs should evaluate micronutrient intake alongside total caloric and macronutrient consumption.