Comparative analysis of dietary intake between vegetarian and omnivorous strength training practitioners: Protein consumption disparity

The interaction between a vegetarian diet and strength training remains an area lacking substantial information. However, it is recognized that both vegetarian and omnivorous practitioners require adequate energy and nutrient intake to optimize performance and muscle recovery. This study aimed to compare the dietary intake of omnivores versus vegetarian practitioners of resistance training. Dietary intake was assessed via 24-hour recall and analyzed using the WebDiet® software. A total of 79 (44.6%) vegetarians and 98 (55.4%) omnivores participated in this study, with a majority being female (81.0%) among vegetarians, while the sample among omnivores was equally distributed between genders. The mean energy intake was 27.8±10.5 kcal/kg/day and 29.0±9.4 kcal/kg/day in vegetarian and omnivorous women, respectively, while in men, it was 28.7±10.6 kcal/kg/day and 29.6±8.6 kcal/kg/day in vegetarians and omnivores, respectively. There was no significant difference in average carbohydrate and fat consumption between groups. Protein intake was significantly lower among vegetarians [(female veg=1.3±0.8g/kg/day vs Omniv.=1.7±0.7g/kg/day, p<0.001); (male veg=1.2±0.7g/kg/day vs Omniv.=1.7±0.6g/kg/day, p=0.001)]. In conclusion, vegetarians and omnivores displayed similar dietary intake, but vegetarians tend to consume less protein, which may impair muscle recovery and mass gain.