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Nutrient Intake by Ultramarathon Runners: Can They Meet Recommendations?
Floris C Wardenaar1, Rianne Dijkhuizen, Ingrid J M Ceelen
1Dept. of Sports and Exercise Studies, HAN University of Applied Sciences, Arnhem, Netherlands.
Summary
Ultramarathon runners often fail to meet sports nutrition recommendations for habitual diets. During races, nutrient intake varies widely, and many runners experience gastrointestinal distress, potentially linked to diet.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Human Nutrition
- Endurance Sports Physiology
Background:
- Meeting nutritional needs is crucial for endurance athletes.
- Ultramarathon running presents unique physiological demands.
- Optimal fueling strategies are essential for performance and health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate if ultramarathon runners adhere to nutritional guidelines during training and competition.
- To assess habitual dietary intake and race-day nutrition in ultramarathoners.
- To investigate the relationship between nutrient intake and gastrointestinal distress during ultramarathons.
Main Methods:
- Habitual dietary intake assessed via web-based 24-hr recalls and questionnaires in 68 ultramarathoners.
- Nutrient intake evaluated against sports nutrition recommendations and reference intakes.
- Race-day nutrition and gastrointestinal distress surveyed in 60 km runners (n=41) and observed in 120 km runners (n=4).
- Statistical analysis using Spearman rank correlation coefficients to link intake and distress.
Main Results:
- Habitual carbohydrate and women's protein intake were below recommended levels.
- 75% of athletes consumed less than 60 g/h carbohydrates during the race.
- High variability in nutrient and fluid intake was observed during competition.
- 82% of runners reported gastrointestinal distress, with severe distress being infrequent.
- A correlation between nutrient intake and gastrointestinal distress was noted.
Conclusions:
- Ultramarathon runners do not meet sports nutrition recommendations for their habitual diets.
- Significant variation in nutrient intake occurs on race day.
- High incidence of gastrointestinal distress during competition may be linked to nutrient intake patterns.
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