Dietary Assessment and Education Improves Body Composition and Diet in NCAA Female Volleyball Players

Abstract

This project assessed nutrition and anthropometric parameters at baseline and after a 4-month nutrition intervention that included monthly individual meetings with a registered dietitian of 11 female collegiate volleyball athletes. Total energy, carbohydrate, and protein needs were calculated and intakes were assessed. Paired t tests were used for comparison of the intervention data with baseline and pre- and postintervention data for body composition, using a BOD POD and dietary intake. Preintervention showed no significant changes in body fat percentage or dietary intakes, with 89% of participants not meeting recommended energy intake. Postintervention showed that body fat percent significantly decreased and energy and dietary intakes significantly improved. Findings suggest that nutrition education plays a critical role in improving dietary intakes of athletes.