| dc.description.abstract | Background: Dietary intakes and supplement use among Paralympic Athletes are generally unknown, and expert advice is scarce. Low bone mineral density (BMD) is an issue many para athletes (PA) meet. Elite cyclists are especially known for having larger risk of low BMD. Sufficient level of vitamin D and calcium and energy are required for athletes for sustaining bone health. Objective: Investigating the intake of Vitamin D, Calcium and Energy in PA and compare it with able bodied athletes (ABA); to find out the association between BMD z-score and dietary intakes of Vitamin D, Calcium and Energy; to investigate the relationship between Vitamin D and Calcium intake and Energy intake; and to find out if there is any difference in prevalence of Vitamin D and Calcium supplements between PA and ABA. Method: Dietary intake was assessed in 25 (14 PA and 11 ABA) competing at elite level, aged over 16 years using a 24hour recall interview (24HR) and a supplementary questionnaire collecting background information. BMD z-score was measured through Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Nutrient intake was computed by a nutrient calculation system Kostbergninssystemet (KBS). Independent sample t-test, u-test, Chi square and Fishers exact test and linear regression model was used to analyse the data. Result: Mean intake of vitamin D was somewhat above the official recommendation (19 µg/d whereas mean intake of calcium reached the official recommendation (1148 mg/d). No statistical differences between the two groups. However, 71% proportion of PA failed to meet the RDI for vitamin D, and only 14% failed to meet RDI for calcium. No significant association was found between vitamin D and calcium intake and BMD z-score (p> 0.05). There was no difference in prevalence in supplement intake between the groups Conclusion: Daily Vitamin D intake among para cyclists often do not meet recommended intake and is significantly lower than able bodied peers. Calcium and energy intake do not differ. Vitamin D, calcium and energy intake do not have enough evidence to be related to BMD z-score in both groups. Supplementations are equally prevalent between PA and ABA. Further studies on PA is advised. Keywords: para athlete, cyclist, vitamin D, calcium, energy intake, 24HR, BMD, DXA | |
