Sports Sciences Commons^™

Sex Differences In Carbohydrate Quality: Assessing The Carbohydrate-To-Fiber Ratio In Middle-Aged Hispanic Adults, Cristina Graña Gedrange, Mia I. Perez, Marcela Guadiana, Nicole Cantu, Jose M. Moris

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Hispanic adults in the United States face disproportionate rates of cardiometabolic disease, yet sex-specific disparities in diet quality remain understudied. PURPOSE: To determine diet quality among middle-aged Hispanic adults, assessing carbohydrate quality based on the carbohydrate-to-fiber ratio (CFR) and protein density as indicators of metabolic risk. METHODS: A total of 30 males and 49 females between 40 to 70 years old participated in a cross-sectional analysis of body composition and dietary behavior. Participants underwent girth measurements, a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan, and completed a paper-based 3-day dietary recall log. Dietary data were manually entered by researchers using an …

Low Energy Availability (Lea) And Its Relationship To Nutritional Status And Bone Health In Collegiate Athletes, Anthony Dempsey

UNH URC Open (2026 and after)

This project aims to identify low energy availability in a sample of collegiate athletes and explore the relationship with bone mineral density and nutrient deficiencies. Participants (n=3,407) were recruited from a northeast university and self-reported athlete status and physical activity via online questionnaire. Food records were used to calculate energy and nutrient intake. Anthropometrics including height, weight, body composition and bone mineral status were measured in duplicate. Energy availability (EA) was calculated as (Energy Intake (EI) -Exercising Energy Expenditure) (EEE)) /Fat Free Mass (FFM) (kg) and categorized as optimal (>45 kcal/kg FFM), subclinical, or clinically low (< 30 kcal/kg FFM). Fifteen percent of participants were characterized as athletes (club or division I varsity); mean EA was lower among athletes vs. nonathletes (17.90.7vs.21.90.3, p< .001). Males were more likely to have optimal EA status vs. females (8.8vs4.7%, p< .001). Most females (75.1%) were categorized as clinically LEA; 20.3% had subclinical LEA. Among men, athletes’ EA was similar to nonathletes (21.11.2vs22.20.5, p=.4); among females, athletes had lower EA vs. nonathletes (16.220.9vs21.70.3, p< .001). Males with clinically low EA were most likely to consume inadequate intakes of potassium, fiber, iron, and vitamin D (77.1,94.0,10.4 and 97.3%, respectively); similarly, females with clinically low EA, were most likely to consume inadequate intakes (81.9,87.6,88.3, and 99.5%, respectively). Bone z-scores were higher among athletes vs. non athletes (-.27±.06vs-.67±.02, p< .001) but were not different by EA status. Given the prevalence of LEA within the college athlete and nonathlete populations, further research and tailored nutritional education is needed for this at-risk population.

Education About Eds: How Can Colleges Reduce The Risk And Prevalence Of Eating Disorders In Ncaa Female Athletes?, Meghan J. Mcnabb, Alexandra Jakubiak

Department of Nutrition Student Projects

Female collegiate athletes are currently recognized as a high-risk group for developing eating disorders due to performance pressures and unrealistic body standards. Limited studies have analyzed the impact of tailored educational and behavioral interventions on the prevalence of eating disorders among female athletes in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). This proposed research will be conducted at Nova Southeastern University to explore how colleges can decrease the cases of eating disorders among female athletes using a multi-component educational intervention. Participants will be screened through the EAT-26 assessment tool and initial BMI measures will be recorded to establish a baseline for …

A Comparative Analysis Of Nutritional Knowledge Among Division 1 College Athletes, Malachi Lecadre-Grey, Emily Castillo

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Nutrition is a cornerstone of athletic performance, yet many athletes at the collegiate level lack sufficient knowledge about how to properly fuel their bodies for optimal performance. While athletes generally recognize that nutrition is important for health and performance, many fail to fully understand the specific nutritional needs that support their intense physical demands. This gap in nutritional knowledge can hinder not only their performance, but also their recovery and long-term health. Given the complex role that nutrition plays in athletes’ training, competition, and recovery, addressing this knowledge gap is essential for ensuring athletes can reach their full athletic potential. …

An Evaluation Of Sports Nutrition Knowledge And Influencing Factors In Ncaa Division Iii Athletes, Kerrie Berends, Michael J. Wierenga, Madeline Frens

University Faculty Publications and Creative Works

Introduction:This study evaluated the sports nutrition knowledge of NCAA Division III (DIII) athletes, examining the influence of demographic and sport-specific factors. Nutrition is a critical component of athletic performance, recovery, and overall health, yet prior research indicatescollegiate athletes often lack adequate nutrition knowledge.

Methods: A total of 412 athletes, representing 17 different sports across endurance, power, and skill categories, completed the validated Abridged Nutrition for Sport Knowledge Questionnaire (A-NSKQ). The sample included freshmen through fifth-year seniorathletes, predominantlyCaucasian (85%).

Results: The average A-NSKQ score was 17.1 out of 35 (48.9%), indicating suboptimal knowledge. Significant differences were found across …

No Sex Differences In Metabolic Responses To Submaximal Exercise, Alexander J. Macdonald, Alexander M. Anderson, Hanna Lauritzen, Ryan Pinter, Madison Mower, Todd Astorino Ph.D Facsm

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Tarnopolsky et al. (1990) showed significantly higher fat oxidation (FOx) in women versus men during endurance exercise, likely due to their higher concentrations of estrogen and type I muscle fibers. Prior studies support this stance (Venables et al. 2000), yet Wallis et al. (2006) showed no effect of sex on the metabolic response to exercise. PURPOSE: To compare substrate metabolism between men and women during submaximal exercise prescribed using metabolic (percent ventilatory threshold, %VT) and relative (percent maximal heart rate, %HRmax) intensities. METHODS: Healthy, non-obese men (n = 23) and women (n = 13) (age, % fat, and VO_{2 …}

Assessing The Differences Between Chewing And Swallowing Arugula Extract Capsules On The Concentrations Of Nitric Oxide Metabolites In Metabolically Healthy Males, Tomas J. Chapman-Lopez, Leroy Bolden, Dylan T. Wilburn, Jeffery L. Heileson, Rodney Sturdivant, Andrew R. Gallucci, Leslee K. Funderburk, Jeffrey S. Forsse

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Previous literature has examined the benefits of consuming nitrate (NO3)-rich crops (e.g., beetroot, spinach, watercress, arugula) on endothelial function due to their positive influence on nitric oxide (NO) production from the utilization of nitrate-reducing bacteria in the oral microbiome. However, there has yet to be a study addressing how the method of consumption may influence the role the oral microbiome plays in the degradation of NO3 to NO from consuming an encapsulated NO3-rich crop. PURPOSE: To determine the differences in NO metabolite concentrations following two different methods (e.g., chewing, swallowing) of consuming the encapsulated arugula extract. METHODS: Eight, …

Nutrition Able: A Lecture-Based Intervention To Promote Nutritional Literacy About Protein Intake In Women, Jeffery Bolte, Alejandra Garcia, Jacob Abalos, Jakson Johnson, Alex Joyce, Christopher Hinds, Jared Tuttle, Jeff Svec

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Sport performance is influenced by sport-specific requirements for body composition. One major predictor of body composition is protein intake. Higher protein intake tends to cause leaner body composition relative to lower protein intake, especially during caloric deficit. In Bexar County, ~72% of the adult population is overweight/obese and 15.5% are diabetic. This suggests that high protein diet could be a high leverage option in the San Antonio population for optimizing body composition for sport performance. Furthermore, late life sporting activity and protein intake is a primary method for mitigating sarcopenia, osteoporosis, fractures, and accidental death in post-menopausal women. PURPOSE: …

Food And Mood: The Correlation Between Vitamin B12 And Folate Intake And Depression, Jana Soucar, Hawley Almstedt

Honors Thesis

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that metabolizes homocysteine, which is a potentially neurotoxic molecule when in excess. Folate is a B vitamin that is essential to the production of norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine in the brain. Studies show that a deficiency in vitamin B12, as well as folate, may be associated with mental health conditions. Additionally, the prevalence of depression is higher in college students than other demographic populations. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate a correlation between vitamin B12 and folate intake with signs and symptoms of depression in college students. METHODS: This …

Food And Mood: Investigating The Correlation Between Vitamin B12 Intake And Depression, Jana Soucar, Hawley Almstedt

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that metabolizes homocysteine, which is a potentially neurotoxic molecule when in excess. Studies show that a deficiency in vitamin B12, as well as folate, may be associated with mental health conditions. Additionally, the prevalence of depression is higher in college students than other demographic populations. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate a correlation between vitamin B12 and folate intake with signs and symptoms of depression in college students. METHODS: This study was conducted by first providing participants with the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) to measure signs and symptoms of …

Fluid Intake And Hydration Responses To Mass Participation Gravel Cycling, Brandon Raik, Francis Salmon, Grace Handler, Matthew M. Schubert

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Gravel cycling is a relatively new cycling discipline, with the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) hosting their first UCI Gravel World Championships in 2022. Gravel races combine features of road racing, cyclocross, and mountain biking, including various terrain of varying technical difficulty (paved roads, dirt roads, fire roads, single- and double-track trails), long distances, substantial vertical elevation gain, obstacles, and limited opportunities to stop for in-race nutrition. PURPOSE: To date, gravel racing has not been scientifically examined to determine the demands of the sport. Data from cycling road races indicate substantial fluid loss, which may impair exercise performance. This study assessed …

Usage And Influence Of Dietary Supplementation Amongst Adolescent Athletes, Allison Harlow, Jennifer Walker, Aubrey Wagstaff

Journal of Sports Medicine and Allied Health Sciences: Official Journal of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of dietary supplements or ergogenic aids amongst high school athletes.

Uri Athletics Fueling Station, Caitlin O'Leary

Senior Honors Projects

No abstract provided.

Freestyle: A Guide To Making Swimming Nutrition Simple, Megan Wills

Undergraduate Theses

Nutrition plays a critical role in the performance of an athlete. Although academic research surrounding the topic has increased, there is a disproportionate increase in materials created for the athletes themselves. Regarding competitive swimming, the scope of athlete-friendly instructional materials is even more limited. Therefore, there is an inherent disconnect between the academic research on the topic of competitive swimming nutrition and the athletes who need the information. The purpose of this project is to bridge the gap between the research and the content accessible for athletes themselves. Using an interpretive and simplistic approach, the available academic research was used …

Health Consequences Of Low Energy Availability In Females And Their Underlying Physiological Mechanisms, Grace Parry

Senior Honors Theses

Low energy availability (LEA) is a state in which energy intake is insufficient to support energy expenditure while maintaining energy balance, which has been shown to result in gastrointestinal distress, immunosuppression, reduced metabolic rate, menstrual dysfunction, diminished bone health, and impaired cardiovascular function in females. Alterations to the microbiome and mucosal lining may propagate gastrointestinal complaints and compromised immune function associated with LEA. The pathophysiology of LEA is otherwise largely driven by hormonal adaptations. Diminished production of thyroid hormones is known to contribute to reduced metabolic rate. Decreases in leptin and insulin and increases in ghrelin disrupt reproductive function through …

Macronutrients For High And Low Injury Risk Collegiate Rodeo Athletes Compared To Recommended Dietary Allowances, Jessie Ramirez, Andy Wolfe, Bailee Cooper, Ruth Caddell

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Rodeo is a high-intensity, intermittent sport in nature unlike popular American sports. The production of empirical research outlining the physical demands and ideal training methods connected to rodeo and improving performance has not matched the rate of growth the sport of rodeo has experienced. Particularly regarding nutritional recommendations, limited research explains nutrition and its role in injury prevention and the process of recovery in rodeo athletes. PURPOSE: The purpose was to investigate the differences of macronutrients between high risk and low risk of injury in rodeo athletes compared to recommended daily allowances (RDA). METHODS: College rodeo athletes from …

Timing Is Everything, But Does It Really Matter? Impact Of 8-Weeks Morning Versus Evening Iron Supplementation In Ballet And Contemporary Dancers, Caitlin Attwell, Alannah Mckay, Marc Sim, Cory Dugan, Joanna Nicholas, Luke Hopper, Peter Peeling

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

The effectiveness of a morning versus evening oral iron supplement strategy to increase iron stores was explored. Ballet and contemporary dancers with serum ferritin (sFer) < 50 g/L (n = 14), were supplemented daily with 105 mg elemental oral iron in either the morning (FeAM) or evening (FePM) for 8 weeks. A control group (n = 6) with sFer > 50 g/L were given no supplement over the same period. Dancers’ sFer were measured at baseline and post-intervention. Assessment of daily training load, dietary intake, and menstruation were made. A significant interaction (p < 0.001) showed the within group sFer change over the 8-week intervention in FeAM (+25.9 ± 10.5 g/L) and FePM, (+22.3 ± 13.6 g/L) was significantly different to CON (−30.17 ± 28.7 g/L; both p = 0.001). This change was not different between FeAM and FePM (p = 0.778). sFer levels within FeAM and FePM significantly increased over the 8-weeks; however, they significantly decreased in the CON group (all p < 0.05). Post-intervention sFer levels were no longer different between the three groups (p > 0.05). Training load, dietary intake, and number of menstrual cycles incurred were similar between FeAM and FePM (p > 0.05). Oral iron supplementation in either the morning or evening appears equally effective in increasing sFer levels in dancers with sub-optimal iron status.

How Does Diet Quality Predict The Performance Of Rotc Cadets On The Acft, Grant Calhoun, Sofia Harman, Annika C. Grams, Ruth Larson, Payton Price, Sara Thomasson, Kaitlyn Wabakken, Katelynn Brock, Zachary Zeigler, Anthony Acevedo

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) is a newly developed test assessing U.S. Army soldiers' combat readiness. The Healthy Eating Index 2015 (HEI-2015) is a questionnaire established by the USDA that quantifies overall diet quality. The HEI-2015 uses a scale of 0 to 100 with higher scores aligning more with the recommendations from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The HEI-2015 is comprised of 13 subcategories: Total Fruits [TF], Whole Fruits [WF], Total Vegetables [TV], Greens and Beans [GB], Whole Grains [WG], Dairy [D], Total Protein foods [TP], Seafood and Plant Proteins [SPP], Fatty Acids [FA], Refined Grains [RG], Sodium [S], …

Athlete Experiences Of Communication Strategies In Applied Sports Nutrition And Future Considerations For Mobile App Supportive Solutions, David Mark Dunne, Carmen Lefevre-Lewis, Brian Cunniffe, Samuel George Impey, David Tod, Graeme Leonard Close, James P. Morton, Rebecca Murphy

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim:

This study aimed to explore athletes' experiences and opinions of communication strategies in applied sports nutrition, as well as capture suggestions for future mobile app supportive solutions.

Methods:

A qualitative approach was used for this research. Data was generated from semi-structured focus groups (n = 9) with a purposive sample of 41 (male = 24, female = 17) full time professional athletes (mean age 24 ± 4.59) from five sports (football, rugby union, athletics, cycling, and boxing). Data was analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results:

The analysis identified four higher order themes and five sub themes. Athletes appear dissatisfied …

The Prevalence Of Red-S Among College Athletes, Johnny Nguyen

Graduate Research Showcase

Relative Energy Deficiency in Sports (RED-S) is a phenomenon established by the International Olympic Committee to expand on the previously known condition as the female athlete triad, to include male athletes. Relative Energy Deficiency in Sports is a physiological functioning impairment due to athletes with low energy availability. Low energy occurs when athletes expend more energy (calorie burn with activity) than they consume (daily caloric intake) for an extended period. Leading to alter or impaired physiological function. College is a period where individuals gain their independence. Collegiate student-athletes are learning to juggle multiple aspects of their life. Along with excelling …

Physical Activity Patterns And Dietary Habits Of Undergraduate Students, Ebenezer Essaw, Monday Omoniyi Moses, Daniel Afrifa, Isaac Kwaku Acheampong, Winifred Mensah, Lemuel Owusu

Baltic Journal of Health and Physical Activity

Background: ‪Data about physical activity report card for Ghanaian children and youth are available but reports on physical activity patterns and dietary habits of undergraduates are scarce. Material and methods: ‪This cross-sectional study sampled 278 participants (161 males, 117 females, mean age = 20.73 ± 1.72 years). Blood pressure, heart rate, physical activity patterns and dietary habits were measured. Results: ‪Most (83.1%) of the sample predominantly engaged in household activities. Time spent on treadmill/ cycling activities is significantly higher in females than males (P = 0.018). Day/week for high intensity sports was higher in males (P = 0.005), while household …

Macronutrients And Water – Do They Matter In The Context Of Cognitive Performance In Athletes?, Ewa Karpecka, Barbara Fraczek

Baltic Journal of Health and Physical Activity

Proper nutrition is a key factor in physical performance, but there are also indications of an impact of dietary components on the brain function. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the impact of macronutrients and water on cognitive performance. Assumptions of the Mediterranean diet correlate with better global cognition, episodic memory, lower risk of cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative diseases. In turn, a high-fat and high-sugar diet shows the opposite effect. Omega-3 fatty acids could be used as a preventive tool for cognitive decline, but there is still insufficient evidence if supplementation improves cognitive functions. The proper intake …

Determination Of Energy Intake And Dietary Habits And Their Relationship With Physical Activity Levels And Healthy Lifestyle Behaviours Of Primary Education And Pre-Service Teachers, Arzu Özkan, Taner Bozkuş, Ali Özkan, Gürhan Kayihan

Baltic Journal of Health and Physical Activity

Background: Participation in physical activity (PA) from a young age helps to build the foundation for a healthy life in the future. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between energy intake, dietary habits, PA levels, and healthy lifestyle behaviours (HLSBs) in primary education and pre-service teachers. Material and methods: A total of 105 primary education teachers (69 female, 36 male) and 95 pre-service teachers (64 female, 31 male) participated voluntarily in this study. To determine energy intake and dietary habits, participants completed a form detailing what they had consumed during the previous 24 hours. The short …

Associations With The Number Of Well-Known Grocery Stores, Gyms, And Parks To Median Household Income, Sara Le, Edward Merritt Phd, Vanessa Mikan Phd

International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings

Segregated neighborhoods are linked to the environmental exposures, education and behavior of their residents. Access to exercise and nutrition resources are dependent on whether or not residents are able to afford it or not. PURPOSE: To identify the associations between the location of nutrition and exercise resources to household income. METHODS: Selective Zip codes in the Austin Area were used to identify the median household income through an online search where data is collected from the U.S. Census. Selective grocery store companies and gyms were found through an online search of their website “store locator.” Neighborhood parks were identified by …

Factors Influencing Performance And Injury Risk In Elite Female Gaelic Team Sport Players And Future Research Directions: A Narrative Review, John Duggan, Kieran Collins, Karen Keane

Articles

Background: Sports science research in elite female Gaelic team sports has increased in recent years, but still a large disparity exists between the volume of studies involving male and female players. As a consequence of this, it is difficult for practitioners to develop an evidence-based approach when working with female players. Main body: In this review, we discuss the current research available in elite female Gaelic team sports with focus on seven specific areas including physical and physiological demands, anthropometric and performance characteristics, injury risk, nutritional considerations, and female physiology. There appears to be unique physical demands data in match …

Applied Sport Science Of Gaelic Football: A Review, Eoghan Boyle, Shane Mangan, Dominic Doran, Kieran Collins

Articles

The current review focuses on Gaelic football literature providing an insight into the physical characteristics of players, the demands of match-play, the injury profile, and nutritional considerations within the game. Since the first review of Gaelic football in 2001, an increased understanding of match dynamics has taken place through the application of movement analysis technology. In recent years, the evolution of the application of sport science provisions within Gaelic football has increased. This has resulted in researchers attempting to bridge the gap between the scientific laboratory and the applied practitioner. Overall, intermittent aerobic fitness remains important during competition, along with …

Musculoskeletal Responses To Exercise Plus Nutrition In Men With Prostate Cancer On Androgen Deprivation: A 12-Month Rct, Jack Dalla Via, Patrick J. Owen, Robin M. Daly, Niamh L. Mundell, Patricia M. Livingston, Timo Rantalainen, Stephen J. Foulkes, Jeremy L. Millar, Declan G. Murphy, Steve F. Fraser

Research outputs 2014 to 2021

Purpose: Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer has multiple adverse effects on musculoskeletal health. This 12-month randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the effects of multicomponent exercise training combined with whey protein, calcium and vitamin D supplementation on bone mineral density (BMD), structure and strength, body composition, muscle strength, and physical function in ADT-treated men.

Methods: Seventy ADT-treated men were randomized to exercise plus supplementation (Ex + Suppl; n = 34) or usual care (control; n = 36). Ex + Suppl involved thrice weekly progressive resistance training plus weight-bearing impact exercise with daily multinutrient supplementation. Primary outcomes were DXA …

Using Exercise And Nutrition To Alter Fat And Lean Mass In Men With Prostate Cancer Receiving Androgen Deprivation Therapy: A Narrative Review, Rebekah L. Wilson, Dennis R. Taaffe, Robert U. Newton, Nicolas H. Hart, Philippa Lyons-Wall, Daniel A. Galvao

Research outputs 2014 to 2021

Fat mass (FM) gain and lean mass (LM) loss are common side effects for patients with prostate cancer receiving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Excess FM has been associated with an increased risk of developing obesity-related comorbidities, exacerbating prostate cancer progression, and all-cause and cancer-specific mortality. LM is the predominant contributor to resting metabolic rate, with any loss impacting long-term weight management as well as physical function. Therefore, reducing FM and preserving LM may improve patient-reported outcomes, risk of disease progression, and ameliorate comorbidity development. In ADT-treated patients, exercise and nutrition programs can lead to improvements in quality of life and …

Maintaining Weight Loss In Obese Men With Prostate Cancer Following A Supervised Exercise And Nutrition Program—A Pilot Study, Rebekah L. Wilson, Dennis R. Taaffe, Robert U. Newton, Nicolas H. Hart, Philippa Lyons-Wall, Daniel A. Galvão

Research outputs 2014 to 2021

Supervised exercise and nutrition programs can mitigate or reverse androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) induced fat mass (FM) gain, lean mass (LM) loss, and impaired physical function. It is unclear whether these benefits are retained following transition to self-management. This study examined the effect of a home-based weight maintenance program on body composition and physical function in obese men with prostate cancer (PCa) on ADT following a 12-week supervised weight loss intervention. Eleven obese PCa patients (74 ± 5 years, 40.0 ± 4.9% body fat) on ADT ( > 6 months) com-pleted a 12-week self-managed home-based weight maintenance program consisting of 150 …

Hss Advocate Alumni News Fall 2020, Department Of Health And Sport Sciences

Health and Sport Sciences Newsletter

Distance Learning during COVID 19 Message from the Chair Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Personnel Updates Master of Science in Allied Health (MSAH) Supporting Otterbein via and Endowed Scholarship