Comparison of Dietary Macro and Micro-Nutrients According to Gender in Recreationally Physically Active Youth

This study aimed to compare dietary macro and micronutrient intake between genders in recreationally physically active young males and females. A total of 60 volunteers participated in the study. (mean age of males: 22.09±2.45 years; mean age of females: 19.96±2.91 years). During the study period, participants were instructed to continue their usual eating habits and to provide a three-day dietary record consisting of two weekdays and one weekend day. The average intake of energy, macronutrients, and selected micronutrients (vitamins C, A, and E) was calculated from the dietary records using a computerized dietary analysis software (BEBIS, version 6.1, Turkey). A statistically significant difference was observed between males and females in terms of daily energy (kcal/day) and protein (g) intake, with higher values reported in males (1568.5±418.9 vs. 1356.3±254.9; 71.0±19.10 vs. 56.55±16.10, respectively), but no gender differences were found when protein intake was expressed as a percentage. Additionally, no significant gender differences were identified in fat, carbohydrate, or cholesterol intake. Furthermore, except for vitamin B6 and phosphorus, the intake of the remaining vitamins and minerals assessed (A, E, C, B1, B2; Na, K, Ca, Mg, P, Fe, and Zn) did not differ significantly. Consequently, men have consumed significantly higher amounts of certain nutrients compared with women. Nevertheless, several key vitamins and minerals have been determined below the Population Reference Intake (PRI) in both genders.