Reference Values and Sensitivity for Different Body Fat Variables Measured by Bioimpedance Method in Female Athletes in Individual Sports: Discriminative and Comparative Study / Valores de Referencia y Sensibilidad para Diferentes Variables de Grasa Corporal Medidas por el Método de Bioimpedancia Eléctrica en Deportistas Femeninas en Deportes Individuales: Estudio Discriminativo y Comparativo

SUMMARY: Athletes differ among themselves and one of the main differences is observed in relation to body shape and composition. Achieving top sports performance requires more standardization in the processes of training and development of a unique methodology for individualizing the control specific adaptation of athletes. The aim of this study is to establish reference data for the most sensitive variables to define the amount and structure of body fat in female athletes in individual sports. The sample included 895 females, divided in: a control group (Cont) of young females (N = 688); International (N = 113), and National level female athletes (N = 94) in 13 individual sports. Four variables described the structureof of body fat: Percentage of body fat (PBF), Body Fat Mass Index (BFMI), Protein Fat Index (PFI) and Index of Body Composition (IBC). Results showed that considering the control group, female athletes have all examined Body Fat variables statistically significantly different (BFMI and PBF are lower, p = 0.011 and p = 0.000, while PFI and IBC are higher, p = 0.000, respectively). Female athletes are also statistically significantly different in relation to the level of competition (p = 0.000), and the investigated variables are responsible for 17.7 % of the variability of the difference between the groups. Competitively more successful female athletes have higher IBC (lower percentage of fat per overall body volume, p = 0.013), as well as, a statistically significantly higher protein mass in relation to body fat mass (PFI, p = 0.018). The most sensitive variables for defining body fat differences between the examined individual sports were IBC, with an influence of 37.9 %, then PFI (32.4 %), then PBF (22.8 %), and finally BFMI, with an influence of 11.4 % on the differences. Based on the results of this study, IBC and PFI are variables that have shown useful scientific-methodological potential for research in the future.

Los deportistas difieren entre sí y una de las principales diferencias se observa en relación a la forma y composición corporal. Alcanzar el máximo rendimiento deportivo requiere una mayor estandarización en los procesos de entrenamiento y en el desarrollo de una metodología única para individualizar el control de adaptación específico de los atletas. El objetivo de este estudio fue establecer datos de referencia de las variables más sensibles para definir la cantidad y estructura de la grasa corporal en mujeres deportistas en deportes individuales. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 895 mujeres, divididas en: un grupo control (Cont) de mujeres jóvenes (N = 688); Atletas femeninas de nivel internacional (N = 113) y nacional (N = 94) en 13 deportes individuales. Cuatro variables describieron la estructura de la grasa corporal: Porcentaje de grasa corporal (PBF), Índice de Masa Grasa Corporal (BFMI), Índice de Proteína Grasa (PFI) e Índice de Composición Corporal (IBC). Los resultados mostraron que, considerando el grupo control, todas las atletas tuvieron diferecias estadísticamente significativas respecto a las variables de grasa corporal (BFMI y PBF son más bajos, p = 0,011 y p = 0,000, mientras que PFI e IBC son más altos, p = 0,000, respectivamente). En relación al nivel de competencia, las atletas femeninas presentan diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p = 0,000), y las variables investigadas son responsables por el 17,7 % de la variabilidad de la diferencia entre los grupos. Las atletas femeninas competitivamente más exitosas tienen un IBC más alto (menor porcentaje de grasa por volumen corporal total, p = 0,013), así como una masa proteica estadísticamente más alta en relación con la masa de grasa corporal (PFI, p = 0,018). Las variables más sensibles para definir las diferencias de grasa corporal entre los deportes individuales examinados fueron IBC, con una influencia del 37,9 %, luego PFI (32,4 %), a seguir PBF (22,8 %) y finalmente BFMI, con una influencia del 11,4 % en las diferencias. En base a los resultados de este estudio, IBC y PFI son las variables que han mostrado un potencial científico-metodológico útil para la investigación en el futuro.

Relación entre la activación cortical y los estados de ánimo en judocas de alto rendimiento / Relação entre ativação cortical e estados de humor em jogadores de judô de alto desempenho / Relationship between cortical activation and moods in judo high performance female athletes

RESUMEN La evaluación de la activación cortical e, indicador de fatiga central, constituye un demandado proceder del control psicológico del entrenamiento en deportistas de alto rendimiento en Cuba. Sin embargo, la mayoría de los estudios realizados no abordan la relación entre esta variable y los estados de ánimo, aunque se ha demostrado el impacto que poseen estos últimos en el rendimiento del deportista, en su estado de salud, entre otras variables. El incipiente conocimiento al respecto ha limitado la realización de intervenciones psicopedagógicas más integrales durante el control psicológico del entrenamiento. El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo comprobar la relación entre el nivel de activación cortical y los estados de ánimo. La muestra estuvo compuesta por diez judocas del equipo nacional de judo femenino de Cuba. La activación cortical fue medida durante seis sesiones de entrenamiento mediante el uso del Flicker, antes y después de suministradas las cargas. Los estados de ánimo fueron evaluados antes de comenzar cada sesión de entrenamiento con el perfil interactivo de estados de ánimo. Se procesaron los datos mediante la T de Student para muestras relacionadas, el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson y Spearman, distribuciones de frecuencias y estadígrafos descriptivos. Los principales resultados arrojaron que en la variable estados de ánimos prevalece el vigor cuya evaluación fue alta antes de iniciar las sesiones de entrenamiento, también se evidenció presencia de fatiga, mientras que el nivel de activación cortical mostró el comportamiento esperado que produjo un aumento significativo de la misma poscarga, constatándose una correlación muy débil entre ambas variables.

RESUMO A avaliação da ativação cortical e, um indicador de fadiga central, constitui um procedimento exigido no controle psicológico do treinamento de atletas de alto rendimento em Cuba. Entretanto, a maioria dos estudos realizados não aborda a relação entre esta variável e o humor, embora o impacto deste último no desempenho e estado de saúde do atleta, entre outras variáveis, tenha sido demonstrado. O conhecimento incipiente a este respeito tem limitado a implementação de intervenções desde psicopedagogias mais abrangentes durante o controle psicológico do treinamento. O objetivo do presente estudo era testar a relação entre o nível de ativação cortical e os estados de humor. A amostra consistiu de 10 judocas da equipe nacional feminina de judô de Cuba. A ativação cortical foi medida durante seis sessões de treinamento usando o Flicker, antes e depois que as cargas foram administradas. Os estados de humor foram avaliados antes do início de cada sessão de treinamento com o Perfil de humor interativo. Os dados foram processados usando o teste t de Student para amostras relacionadas, o coeficiente de correlação de Pearson e Spearman, distribuições de frequência e estatísticas descritivas. Os principais resultados mostraram que no variável humor prevaleceu o vigor, cuja avaliação foi alta antes de iniciar as sessões de treinamento, a presença de fadiga também foi evidenciada, enquanto o nível de ativação cortical mostrou o comportamento esperado que produziu um aumento significativo na mesma pós-carga, mostrando uma correlação muito fraca entre as duas variáveis.

ABSTRACT The evaluation of cortical e activation, an indicator of central fatigue, constitutes a demanded procedure for the psychological control of training in high-performance athletes in Cuba. However, most of the studies carried out do not address the relationship between this variable and moods, although the impact that the latter have on the performance of the athlete, on their health status, among other variables, has been demonstrated. The incipient knowledge in this regard has limited the performance of more comprehensive psychopedagogical interventions during the psychological control of training. The present work aimed to verify the relationship between the level of cortical activation and moods. The sample consisted of 10 judokas from the Cuban women's national judo team. Cortical activation was measured during six training sessions using the Flicker, before and after the loads were delivered. Moods were assessed before beginning each training session with the Interactive Moods Profile. Data were processed using Student's T for related samples, Pearson's and Spearman's correlation coefficient, frequency distributions, and descriptive statistics. The main results showed that in the moods variable, vigor prevails, which evaluation was high before starting the training sessions, the presence of fatigue was also evidenced, while the level of cortical activation showed the expected behavior that produced a significant increase in the same after load, confirming a very weak correlation between both variables.

Running performance of non-professional female runners from different Brazilian states: the role of environmental characteristics

Abstract Aims: (i) to compare the running performance of non-professional female runners from different Brazilian states; (ii) to estimate the relationship between environmental state-related variables and running performance; and (iii) to analyze the mediation role of training commitment in the relationship between the environment and running performance. Methods: A total of 418 non-professional female runners were sampled from the five Brazilian regions. An online questionnaire was used for data collection and included self-reported information about age, body weight, body height, place of residence, training volume, and running pace. Environmental characteristics were based on the Census 2010 and included percentages of public illumination, asphalt, sidewalks, and green areas for state capital cities. Linear regression, Pearson correlation, and mediation analysis were performed using SPSS 26, at a 95% confidence interval. Results: The fastest women were from the Rio Grande do Sul. Significant differences were observed between Rio Grande do Sul and Rio Grande do Norte (β= 45.79; 95%CI = 16.86 − 74.73), Distrito Federal (β = 34.55; 95%CI = 1.87−67.24), and Sergipe (β = 35.34; 95%CI = 14.09−56.60). A negative relationship was observed between running pace with green areas (r = −0.206; 95%CI = −0.305 − −0.110) and training volume (r = −0.343; 95%CI = −0.427−0.167). Training volume explained 23% of the relationship between the percentage of green areas and running performance. Conclusion: The fastest runners were from the Rio Grande do Sul. Higher percentages of green areas can favor performance, which is partly mediated by increased training volume.

Necessary Conditioning for Female Athletes: A Case Report on Gynecological problems and Acupuncture / 全日本鍼灸学会雑誌

The physical condition of athletes should be adequately assessed to ensure better performance. Because athletes are often challenged with the limits of strength and energy during training, orthopedic problems and poor physical condition, such as sports injuries, are unavoidable. Furthermore, in female athletes, the effects of hormonal changes and symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle cannot be estimated. The author experienced sports-related gynecological disorders in her active years. From participation in the 2004 Athens Olympic Games (athletics, women's hammer throw) up to 2012, the year of retirement, the author experienced repeated acute low back pain and struggle for daily training and conditioning. Moreover, women experienced endometriosis (ovary chocolate cysts) and anemia due to menorrhagia. Strong menstrual pain halted training activities. Premenstrual syndrome caused poor physical condition because of premenstrual edema and body stiffness. Because of the low mood at the time of resection for bilateral chocolate cysts in 2009, acupuncture was used as a part of conditioning. This was considered as "liver blood deficiency" in oriental medicine, from the perspective of the circulatory system. It increased awareness regarding physical fatigue, condemned the practice of forced training in poor conditions, contributed as a coping mechanism and prevented injury. Health problems progressing to organic dysmenorrhea may be completely prevented through an early diagnosis and treatment without residual pain. Menstrual problems can be treated with suitable hormonal therapies. Female athletes are recommended to undergo regular medical examinations by a gynecologist. Hormonal therapy combined with symptomatic treatment is preferable to appropriately treat pain associated with menstruation; training should be planned considering menstrual cycle occurrence. It is advisable to find personalized conditioning methods, such as acupuncture, in conjunction with medicine.

Descriptive body composition profile in female olympic volleyball medalists defined using multichannel bioimpedance measurement: rio 2016 team case study / Perfil descriptivo de la composición corporal en medallistas femeninos de voleibol olímpico definido mediante medición de bioimpedancia multicanal: estudio del equipo Rio 2016

The subject of this paper was the study of the morphological status of top elite women volleyball players, Rio 2016 Olympic medal winners, with the aim of obtaining reliable quantitative data, used to determine the morphological model and to control the morphological status of top elite women volleyball players. This study tested 12 top elite women volleyball players who participated in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and won the silver medal. Measurements of body composition were conducted one day before departing for the Rio Olympic Games, on 25th June, 2016, using electrical bioimpendance analysis (BIA), with the InBody 720 Tetrapolar 8-Point Tactile Electrode System analyzer. The study included 29 variables: 17 original variables, four voluminosity-dependent variables, six longitudinality-dependent variables, and two combined index variables. The results showed that average height of the women players was 188.93±6.49 cm, the overall mean BM value for the Serbian team was 75.56±6.97, the overall mean BMI value for the team was 21.08±1.30 kg•m-2, while the mean values for percent skeletal muscles and body mass were 48.95±1.78 % and 13.43±2.70 %, respectively. Upon a thorough analysis of the results of the study, it can be argued that in all measured anthropomorphological characteristics the top elite women volleyball players from the tested sample had a body type of remarkable basic longitudinality, i.e., BH, and a body composition mainly characterized by very high muscle mass but such a low amount of body fat that it bordered on the biological minimum for women.

El objetivo de este trabajo fue estudiar el estado morfológico de las jugadoras de voleibol de élite, ganadoras de la medalla olímpica Rio 2016 y obtener datos cuantitativos confiables para determinar el modelo morfológico y controlar el estado morfológico de las mejores jugadoras de voleibol de elite. Este estudio estudió a 12 jugadoras de voleibol de élite que participaron en los Juegos Olímpicos de Rio 2016 y ganaron la medalla de plata. Las mediciones de la composición corporal se realizaron un día antes de partir para los Juegos Olímpicos de Río, el 25 de junio del año 2016. Se realizó un análisis de bioimpedancia eléctrica (ABI), con el analizador de sistema de electrodos táctiles Tetrapolar 720 de 8 puntos. El estudio incluyó 29 variables: 17 variables originales, cuatro variables dependientes de voluminosidad, seis variables dependientes de la longitud y dos variables de índice combinadas. Los resultados mostraron que la estatura promedio de las jugadoras fue de 188,93 ± 6,49 cm, el valor medio general de MC para el equipo serbio fue de 75,56 ± 6,97, el valor medio total de IMC para el equipo fue de 21,08 ± 1,30 kg • m-2, mientras que los valores medios para el porcentaje de músculos esqueléticos y la masa corporal fueron 48.95 ± 1.78 % y 13.43 ± 2.70 %, respectivamente. Tras un análisis exhaustivo de los resultados del estudio, se puede argumentar que en todas las características antropomorfológicas medidas, las jugadoras de élite de voleibol femenino, de la muestra analizada, tenían un tipo corporal de notable longitudinalidad básica, por ejemplo, AC y una composición corporal caracterizada principalmente por una masa muscular muy alta, pero una cantidad tan baja de grasa corporal que limita con el mínimo biológico para las mujeres.

Efeitos do estado de humor sobre os comportamentos alimentares inadequados de atletas de atletismo / Effects of mood state on inappropriate eating behavior of track and field athletes

O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar os efeitos do estado de humor sobre os comportamentos alimentares inadequados (CAI) em atletas. Participaram 68 atletas de atletismo, do sexo feminino, com idades entre 12 e 17 anos. Utilizaram-se o Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) e a Escala de Humor de Brunel (BRUMS) para avaliar os CAI e o distúrbio total do humor (DTH), respectivamente. Dois modelos de regressão linear não indicaram influência estatisticamente significativa da BRUMS nas subescalas Dieta (p=0,42) e Bulimia e Preocupação com Alimentos (p=0,81) do EAT-26. Ao contrário, a BRUMS (p=0,04) demonstrou impacto significante (7%) sobre os escores da subescala Autocontrole Oral. Concluiu-se que as atletas com DTH elevado podem estar mais susceptíveis à influência ambiental para a ingestão alimentar...

The goal of the present study was to analyze the effects of mood state on inappropriate eating behavior (IEB) of athletes. The participants were 68 female track and field athletes, with ages between 12 and 17 years. The Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) and the Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS) were used to evaluate the IEB and total mood disturbance (TMD), respectively. Two linear regression models indicated no statistically significant influence of BRUMS on Diet (p = 0,42) and on the Bulimia and Food Preoccupation (p = 0,81) subscales of the EAT-26. Rather, BRUMS (p = 0,04) showed a significant impact (7%) on Oral Selfconttrol subscale scores. It was concluded that athletes with high TMD might be more susceptible to environmental influence upon food intake...

VALIDITY OF PREDICTION EQUATION OF BASAL METABOLIC RATE BASED ON FAT-FREE MASS IN JAPANESE FEMALE ATHLETES / 体力科学

The aim of the present study was to examine the validation of prediction equation of basal metabolic rate (BMR) in Japanese female athletes. The study population consisted of 122 Japanese female athletes (age 20.2 ± 1.3 years, height 162.5 ± 6.3 cm, body weight (BW) 57.4 ± 7.7 kg, and fat-free mass (FFM) 45.5 ± 5.1 kg). Body composition was estimated by using air displacement plethysmography (BOD POD System). BMR was measured by indirect calorimetry using dougras bag tequnique, and predicted BMR was calculated from different equations based on FFM. When compared with measured BMR, predicted BMR from the equation of Taguchi et al. (BMR (kcal/day)= 26.9×FFM (kg)+ 36) and equation of Owen et al. were not significantly different. Whereas, predicted values from equation of Japan Institute of Sports Sciences, National Institute of Health and Nutrition and Cunningham were significantly different from measured value. Estimation error and Total error were smaller in equation of Taguchi et al. and Owen et al., however, equation of Owen et al. had a larger estimation error in the subjects who was small body size (less than 42kg) or large body size(more than 69kg). Furthermore, newer equation of Taguchi et al. (BMR=27.5×FFM+5) was developed from the pool data (n=205) in the present study. Standard error of estimation (SEE) of this equation was smaller than the equation of Taguchi et al., and systematic error was hardly observed.In conclusion, the newer equation of Taguchi et al. developed from measured BMR of Japanese female athletes was useful to predict BMR.

Serum Total Cholesterol and Triglyceride Status in Female Athletes.

Background: Exercise plays a role in preventing cardiovascular disease as well as other serious health problems. Objectives: A cross sectional comparative study was performed to observe the changes in serum total cholesterol and triglyceride in apparently healthy female athletes. Methods This study was carried out in the Department of Physiology of Dhaka Medical College from July 2005 to June 2006. For this, 30 female athletes aged 17 to 38 years (experimental) who were under regular physical exercise training for at least two years and age matched 30 healthy female non athletes (control) for comparison were selected. Fasting serum Triglyceride and total Cholesterol levels of all the subjects were measured. Data were compared between athletes and non athletes and analyzed statistically by unpaired ‘t’ test. Results Mean±SD cholesterol levels were 141.10 ±14.46 & 165.10±7.03 and Mean±SD Triglyceride levels were 76.10±11.54 & 96.60±17.02 in athletes and non athletes respectively. Serum total cholesterol (p<0.001) and triglycerides (p<0.01) were significantly lower; in athletes compared to those of non athlets. Conclusion: From this study it can be concluded that, serum total cholesterol and triglycerides may be lowered in athletes.

A Relationship between 2nd to 4th Digit Length Ratio and Aggression Related-Sports Entries Characteristics in Female Athletics of Korean National Teams

OBJECTIVES: The 2nd to 4th digit length ratio(2D : 4D) is a sexually dimorphic trait regardless of ethnicity and shows sex differences. According to previous research, men usually have a relatively shorter 2nd digit than 4th digit. There is tendency that men with lower 2D : 4D are perceived as being more masculine and tend to perform better in some physical sports. Furthermore, 2D : 4D is negatively associated with trait aggression. In this study, we examine gender difference of 2D : 4D and compare 2D : 4D of female Korean national team members to 2D : 4D of control subjects. Besides that, we also compare 2D : 4D of female Korean national team members according to their sports entries. METHODS: The sample of this study is 396 people, 67 female Korean national team member, 216 control women and 113 control men. We measured 2nd to 4th digit length of their right hand. In addition, we collected demographic information of female Korean national team members using a self-report questionnaire. RESULTS: The mean 2D : 4D of female Korean national team members is 0.96(SD=0.04), smaller than control women's 2D : 4D(0.97, SD=0.03) and significantly higher than control men's 2D : 4D(0.95, SD=0.03). We also found differences between control men and women. Non-martial arts related sports athletes have significant difference with control men in 2D : 4D. However, martial arts related sports athletes' 2D : 4D is not significantly different from other groups, including control men. CONCLUSION: These results are consistent with the findings of previous research that there is a significant difference between men and women in their 2D : 4D. Furthermore, 2D : 4D of martial arts related sports athletes have not shown any difference from the 2D : 4D of control men that 2D : 4D of non-martial arts related athletes have shown. This fact is important in consideration of masculine characteristics. For further research, it is necessary to examine 2D : 4D difference according to sport ability and gender differences.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RATE OF ABNORMAL MENSTRUAL CYCLES AND FERTILITY IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION GRADUATES －ANALYSIS OF LONGITUDINAL DATA COLLECTED OVER 25 YEARS FROM THE ENTERING COLLEGE－ / 体力科学

The present study examined the relationship between rate of abnormal menstrual cycles in women who participated in competitive sports and long-term fertility. Longitudinal menstrual data were collected over 25 years from 33 women who graduated from physical education collegesThe results were as follows:1)Among the 33 women surveyed, the number of pregnancies for each woman ranged from zero to eight; the total number of pregnancies was 85 (mean 2.6). Sixty-five (76.5%) of the 85 pregnancies were carried out to delivery times.2)The rate of spontaneous abortion was 15.3%. Four (12.1%) of the 33 women were infertile.3)In women with fertility-related problems such as infertility, spontaneous abortion, premature delivery, and stillbirth, the rate of abnormal menstrual cycles tended to be higher with increase of the fertility-related problems.4)In women with a high rate of abnormal menstrual cycles during college, the rate continued to be high after graduation.5)In women without fertility-related problems, the rate of abnormal menstrual cycles during college varied widely. Also, the rate of abnormal menstruation decreased less than 30% after graduation, excluding one woman. Conversely, in women with fertility-related problems, the rate of abnormal menstrual cycles was higher than in women without fertility problems both during college and after graduation.6)Changes in menstrual cycle length with age were more different than an individual. In women with fertility-related problems, abnormal menstrual cycles were observed between the ages of 18 and 42, and abnormal cycles were both longer and shorter than normal cycles.The results indicated that, in women who participated in competitive sports during their youth, abnormal menstrual cycles may remain long after retirement from sports. In addition, problems such as infertility and spontaneous abortion were observed to be associated with higher rates of abnormal menstrual cycles.

Sports Nutrition / 全日本鍼灸学会雑誌

In order to consider sports nutrition, the position of dietitians and nutritionists needs to be recognized first among people involved in sports. The author, therefore, introduced the roles of nutritionists.<BR><BR>What is the most required nutrition for athletes?The author thinks it is carbohydrates, not proteins. The least required is fat. If that is the case, the percentage composition of total energy intake from traditional Japanese meals seems to be very close to the most ideal diet for athletes. Fluid intake is significant to prevent hyperthermia. In order to estimate the amount of sweat, body mass before and after training as well as the amount of water intake needs to be measured. Fluid intake is considered based on these values. <BR>In addition, instructors should pay special attention to other problems especially with female athletes. Next, the author introduces a diet intervention that we provided for female lacrosse players at our university. Based on this research, it was proven that short-term diet intervention can produce effects on the athletes'body composition, tenacity and the feeling of fatigue.

The Prevalence of Obesity, Serum Lipid Levels and Age at Menarche in Adolescent Female Athletes / 소아과

PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to find the prevalence of obesity, the serum lipid levels and the age at menarche in adolescent female athletes and to examine the effects of exercise in adolescent stage. METHODS: With a questionnaire regarding their age at menarche, physical measurement, body fat, and blood samples of the serum lipid levels to evaluate the hyperlipidemia were obtained from adolescent female athletes(n=107) and general adolescent students(n=650) who didn't exercise at regular intervals, aged 12 to 18 years. RESULTS: The mean weight in the athletes' group was 53.3+/-7.3 kg, which was similar with 54.3+/-8.0 kg in the control group. The mean height in the athletes' group was 161.4+/-5.4 cm, which was taller than 158.9+/-5.3 cm in the control group. The prevalence of obesity by obesity index, body fat, and BMI in the athletes' group were significantly lower than in control group. There was no significant difference in age at menarche between two groups(12.6+/-1.3, 12.9+/-1.2). The levels of cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol in the athletes' group were higher than in the control group. The levels of triglyceride in the athletes' group was lower than in control group. CONCLUSION: These data suggest the importance of exercise in adolescents for the prevention of obesity since it may reduce body fat and increase the height. There was no negative effect of exercise on the age at menarche. We think that more controlled assessment of nutrition, diet habit, hormonal effect and height are warranted to find the correlation with hyperlipidemia and exercise at the adolescent stage.

Iron Deficiency Anemia and Iron Nutrition in Adolescent Female Athletes / 소아과

PURPOSE: Iron deficiency, particularly iron deficiency anemia(IDA) often not only decreases athletic performance but also impairs immune function and leads to other physiologic dysfunctions. This study was designed to assess and compare iron status and the IDA prevalence in female adolescent athletes with those of general adolescent students. METHODS: Physical measurements and hematologic examinations were performed for adolescent female runners(n=32), non-runner athletes(n=78) and apparently healthy students(n=511). Iron deficiency was defined as a serum ferritin concentration <12 ng/mL. The diagnosis of IDA was established when hemoglobin level <12 g/dL was associated with ferritin <12 ng/mL and/or transferrin saturation <16%. RESULTS: The prevalence of ID in the runners' group(40.6%) was significantly higher than that of the non-runner athletes' group(23.1%) and the control group(25.4%). The prevalence of IDA in the runners' group was 31.3%, which was significantly higher than that of the non-runners' group and the control group(7.7% and 16.4%, respectively). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of IDA of Korean adolescent females was relatively high, especially, in female adolescent runners. Screening for anemia and iron status is warranted. It is important to measure for iron nutrition and to enforce effective nutritional education in these groups.

Eating Behaviors, Perception of Body Image, Hematological Indices and Nutrient Intake of Adolescent Female Athletes in Incheon / 대한지역사회영양학회지

The purpose of this study was to investigate the eating behaviors, the self-perception of body images, the hematological indices and the nutrient intake of adolescent female athletes in Incheon. The subjects were 112 female athletes (track and field: n = 32, target shooting: n = 27, fencing: n = 29, swimming: n = 14, badminton: n = 10) from middle and high schools in Incheon. This cross-sectional study was conducted by means of a self-administered questionnaire. Fasting blood samples were obtained and analyzed for hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), ferritin, serum iron, mean cor-puscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC), total iron binding capacity (TIBC) and transferrin saturation (TS). Nutrient intakes obtained by means of the 3 day-recall method were analyzed using the Computer Aided Nutritional Analysis Program. Statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS 10.0 program. Most of the female athletes had dietary problems such as eating unbalanced meals, skipping meals, and preferences for processed foods. More than 60% of the female athletes skipped breakfast. As for perception of their body images, track and field athletes in particular, controlled their weights significantly better than the other athletes (p < 0.05). With regard to their physical exertion during exercise, 56.3% of the swimmers and 31.3% of the track and field athletes answered "very hard", which was a significant difference (p < 0.001). More than 80% of the female athletes experienced vertigo during exercise (p < 0.01). Also more than 50% of the female athletes, with the exception of the badminton players, had experienced irregular menstruation (p < 0.05). The average serum iron levels (p < 0.05), the serum ferritin levels (p < 0.05) and TS (p < 0.05) of the track and field athletes was significantly lower as compared to that of the other athletes. The nutrient intakes of the female athletes, with the exception of Vitamin B6, niacin and phosphorus were lower than the Korean Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA). In particular, the calcium and iron intakes of the female athletes were under 50% of the Korean RDA. Therefore, proper nutritional education and supplementation are required for female athletes to encourage desirable eating habits, as well as to improve their nutritional status and exercise performances.

SUPPLEMENT INTAKE IN FEMALE UNIVERSITY LONG-DISTANCE RUNNERS / 体力科学

Recently, supplements for athletes are being increasingly used. To clarify the current status of supplement intake, we conducted a survey in female university long-distance runners.<BR>An anonymous questionnaire survey was conducted in runners who participated in the 18th Japan Inter-University Women's EKIDEN Championship, We investigated 99 respondents.<BR>The survey showed that 86 runners (87%) took supplements. Iron was most frequently taken (68 runners, 69%) . The common purpose was to reduce fatigue (amino acids, vitamin C) and prevent ane mia (iron) . However, some supplements were taken after their effects were realized, while others were taken without an effect. In some cases, the purpose was not consistent with the effects. Most runners (73%) purchased supplements in shops stores. Fifty percent of them took supplements for supplementation of nutrients deficient in diets. More than 50% of the runners obtained information on nutrition from their coaches.<BR>Furthermore, most runners began to take supplements when they were senior (55 runners, 56%) or junior (31 runners, 31%) high school students. About 70% of them have taken iron. In the highest percentage of them, their coaches recommended the use of supplements.<BR>The results of this survey showed that most female university long-distance runners took supplements, and that a high proportion of them began to take them when they were senior or junior high school students, suggesting the widespread use of supplements among young athletes. In addition, their instructors markedly influenced the runner's nutritional outlook, by being the source of information on nutrition.

Iron Status in Adolescent Female Athletes / 대한혈액학회지

BACKGROUND: This study was aimed at assessing iron nutrition and lipid panel in adolescent female athletes, which were compared with those in general adolescent students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Physical measurement and blood examination were done from adolescent female athletes (N=83) and apparently healthy students (N=758). Anemia was defined as a hemoglobin less than 12g/dL. Iron deficiency was defined as a serum ferritin concentration<10ng/mL. The diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) was established when a low hemoglobin level (Hb<12g/dL) was associated with ferritin<10ng/mL and/or transferrin saturation<10%. RESULTS: The prevalence of anemia in female athletes aged 11 to 14 years was 22.2%, which was significantly higher than that of comparison group (10.1%). However, there were no significant differences in proportion of iron deficiency (20% vs. 27.4%) and IDA (15.6% vs. 8.9%) between two groups. The prevalence of anemia in female athletes aged 15 to 19 years was 26.3%. The prevalence of iron deficiency and IDA were 31.6% and 21.1%, respectively, which were not significantly different from the comparison group. The mean triglyceride level in the athlete girls was lower than the comparison group. And the mean HDL cholesterol level was higher than the comparison group. CONCLUSION: As the prevalence of iron deficiency and IDA is relatively common in adolescent female athletes, the measurement of iron nutrition is warranted in these groups with nutritional education.

Low prevalence of disordered eating patterns and menstrual irregularities in chinese female athletes / 体力科学

The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of disordered eating patterns (DEP) and menstrual irregularities in Chinese female athletes (n=881) and nonathletic controls (n=147), by using Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26) and written questionnaires. The athletes were divided into the following 6 categories : technical, endurance I (leanness is considered important for athletic performance) and II (leanness is less important), aesthetic, ball-game and power sports. The prevalence of DEP in the athletes estimated by EAT-26 was low (technical 1.5%, endurance I 3.3%, endurance 11 1.6%, aesthetic 3.0%, ball-game 3.0% and power sports 0.9%), and didn't significantly differ from that in nonathletic controls (0.7%) . Amenorrheic athletes were not observed in endurance I and II, aesthetic, or ball-game sports and very low prevalence rates for amenorrhea were found in the athletes in technical (0.5%) and power sports (0.4%) . These figures represent no significant differences between athletes and nonathletes in the prevalence rates of amenorrhea. It was suggested that a low prevalence of DEP in Chinese athletes stems from low socioculturally- and socioeconomically-imposed desires to be thin and low requirements for weight loss to improve athletic performance. Also, the present data suggest that the low incidence of amenorrhea in Chinese athletes is partly associated with the low prevalence of DEP.

Prevalence of disordered eating patterns and menstrual status in japanese female athletes / 体力科学

This study investigated the desire and its reasons for weight loss, the prevalence of disordered eating patterns and menstrual status, by using written questionnaires and Eating Attitude Test-26 (EAT-26), in Japanese female athletes (n=1000) and nonathletic controls (n=593) . Athletes were divided into the following 6 categories : technical (n=84), endurance I (n=84) and II (n=76), aesthetic (n=120), ball-game (n=447), and power sports (n=189) . Endurance I consisted of athletes competing in sports where leanness were considered important, while endurance II consisted of athletes competing in sports where leanness is less important. In each category, about four fifths of the athletes wanted to reduce their present weight. As to the reasons for weight loss, the athletes, especially those in the categories of endurance I (79%), power (52%) and aesthetic (34%) sports, reported that they prefer to be thin for improving their athletic performance. The prevalence of disordered eating patterns estimated by EAT-26 was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the athletes of endurance I (20%) and aesthetic (12%) groups than in the nonathletic controls (3 %) . In the athletes of these two sporting event categories, higher rates of amenorrhea (endurance I 20% and aesthetic 7 % vs. nonathlets 1 %) were found to be accompanied by lower values of obesity index and BMI. These data indicate a significantly higher prevalence of disordered eating patterns and menstrual dysfunction in the athletes involved in sports where leanness is emphasized, and a close relationship among undernutrition, low body weight and menstrual dysfunction.