Fluid consumption pattern among athletes and non athletes (17-23years)

Sports nutrition plays a significant role in the advancement of the knowledge available to the athletic community and hydration is of special importance as a part of the preparation, participation, and recovery of every athlete from the stress of training or competition. Twenty five each of female athletes (physical education students) and non athletes respectively from Avinashilingam University for Women and male athletes and non athletes from Karate Association and Rotary Club of Coimbatore respectively were selected. Socio economic background was elicited using questionnaire. Nutritional status was assessed through anthropometry, biochemical tests, clinical examination and dietary survey. Fluid intakes were recorded, average intake was recorded. Fitness tests (athletes) for cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, agility and strength were carried out. Computer assisted nutrition education materials. (Power point) and a booklet were developed. Education was imparted on sports nutrition and hydration and its effect on nutritional knowledge was ascertained. Sixty nine per cent male athlete, 84 per cent male non athlete, 80 per cent female athlete, 88 per cent female non athlete had optimal systolic pressure. All male athletes and female athletes and 84 per cent male non athlete and 96 per cent female athlete had normal blood glucose level. Diet of athletes lacked in major foods and nutrients and non athletes was high in fats and sugar. None of them consumed suggested quantity of fluids per day. No contaminating microbes were present in the fluids consumed by the subjects as proved by Total plate count test. Majority of athletes showed average to excellent performance in all four physical fitness tests. Knowledge pertaining to sports nutrition and hydration was very low before nutrition education (4.56-5.4). Education on sports nutrition and hydration imparted to the athletes and non athletes showed increase in knowledge scores (11.24-11.56).