Analysis of Dietary Intake in Professional Female Football Players: Variations According to Playing Position, Age, and Country

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the dietary intake of professional female football players from clubs in the United Kingdom and Spain. This study compares their diets against established nutritional guidelines, examining differences by age, playing position, and country. The purpose is to understand dietary adequacy and support nutrition education to improve the health and wellbeing of female athletes. It uses a cross-sectional, observational design with 20 to 30 players per club aged 18 and older who are healthy and free of disease. Dietary data is collected using the Snap-N-Send method, where participants photograph their meals and share them via WhatsApp. The study analyses energy intake, protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamin D, calcium, and iron using Nutritics software over three days. Statistical tests compare intake across groups and against recommendations. The study focuses on female footballers at sub-elite to elite levels, with no interventions other than dietary assessment. Participants will provide meal photographs and descriptions for three days, which are analyzed for nutrient content. Researchers will measure key nutritional outcomes including energy availability and macronutrient intake. The study involves no treatment but monitors dietary habits remotely. Participation lasts for the assessment period, with data collection and analysis completed by the research team. Safety monitoring is not applicable as it is an observational study.

Analysis of Dietary Intake in Professional Female Football Players