Unveiling the link: nutritional intake and body composition in elite male Olympic combat sport athletes

Background This study investigates the anthropometric, body composition (BC), and nutritional intake profiles of elite Olympic combat sports athletes in taekwondo (TKD), judo, karate, and boxing. The aim is to assess sport-specific differences in body fat percentage (%BF), fat-free mass (FFM), and nutrient intake, including macronutrients and key micronutrients such as B-complex vitamins. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 57 elite male Iranian combat athletes preparing for the 2018 Asian Games. Anthropometric measurements were assessed using ISAK-standard skinfold thickness, while dietary intake was analysed via a three-day food logbook and the NutriBase 8.1.9 software. Statistical comparisons between combat sports groups were performed using ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc tests (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Results TKD athletes exhibited significantly lower %BF than judo and boxing athletes (<i>p</i> < 0.001), whereas boxers had higher %BF than karatekas (<i>p</i> = 0.006). Judo athletes had the highest energy (<i>p</i> = 0.014) and carbohydrate intake (<i>p</i> = 0.003), while TKD athletes consumed less protein (p < 0.001) and vitamin B12 (<i>p</i> < 0.001) than the other groups. Boxing athletes displayed higher vitamin B6 intake (<i>p</i> < 0.001). Conclusions Distinct sport-specific BC and nutritional intake patterns exist among combat sports athletes. TKD athletes demonstrated leaner profiles, while judo athletes exhibited higher energy and carbohydrate consumption. These findings highlight the need for tailored dietary strategies to optimise performance and recovery based on the physiological demands of each combat discipline. Further research should explore individualised nutrition plans considering weight categories and gender differences.