Assessment of nutritional status, dietary behavior and their relationship with physical performance for football players.

ABSTRACT
This paper evaluates the nutritional status and dietary habits of football players, exploring the intricate connections between these factors and their impact on the physical performance of athletes in the realm of football. One hundred and ten players from Kafr El Sheikh Club, aged 15-19,years were included in this study. Athletes were asked to fill out a questionnaire containing information about personal, social, and economic data, anthropometric measurements "filled in front of the researcher", allergy data, medical data, health practices, dietary behavior data, nutritional history, and a 24-hour recall for 3 days. The speed test was measured for all players. Data were collected and statistically analyzed. Most nutrient intakes, except for potassium, fell below the recommended levels. Significant positive correlations were observed between parental education and protein as well as calcium intake, emphasizing the pivotal role of nutrition education in enhancing athletes' performance. Soccer players exhibited a normal body mass index and consumed a diverse range of foods. Factors such as eating with family, meal size, use of artificial sweeteners, quantity of artificial sweeteners, and high-fat food intake were identified as contributors to improved athletic performance. The study also revealed that nutrient intake of energy, protein, carbohydrate, sodium, potassium, calcium, iron, and vitamin C positively influenced soccer performance. It is recommended to enhance nutritional education with a focus on proteins, minerals, and vitamins to elevate athletic soccer performance. Additionally, it is recommended to encourage athletes to consume a diverse range of foods, particularly those rich in proteins, energy, vitamins, and minerals, to enhance their overall performance. Moreover, it is recommended to prioritize maintaining a standard body weight and promoting the consumption of healthy, nutrient-enriched foods to positively impact the physical activity and well-being of football players. It is also recommended that a professional dietitian follow up with soccer athletes.