Body composition, dietary intake and supplement use among triathletes residing in the Western Cape

Objective. The aim of this study was to determine body composition, dietary intake and supplement use among Olympic and Ironman distance triathletes residing in the Western Cape. Methods. A descriptive, analytical, cross-sectional study design was conducted in Western Cape Province. Twenty-six triathletes registered with Triathlon South Africa were included. Percentage body fat was measured via multi-frequency bio-electrical impedance analysis and anthropometry. Dietary intake and supplement use were measured with an estimated 3-day food record and questionnaire. Results. The mean age of the men and women was 38±7 and 38±10 years respectively. The mean amount of training per week for men and women respectively was 15±4 and 15±5 hours. The percentage body fat (%BF) of men and women was 13±4% and 21±6%, respectively. The mean dietary macronutrient intake for men and women respectively was for total energy intake 14 535±4 510 kJ and 9 004±2 369 kJ, carbohydrate intake 5.3±1.9 g/kg and 3.5±1.0 g/kg, protein intake 2.0±0.5 g/kg and 1.2±0.2 g/kg and fat intake 35±10% and 30±6% of total energy intake. Seventy-three per cent of the triathletes used over-thecounter dietary supplements. Conclusion. Percentage body fat of the men and women was at the upper end of the range associated with elite athletes. Overall the athletes had a fairly good intake of macro- and micronutrients. Inadequate habitual carbohydrate intake was attenuated by the vast majority of the triathletes taking additional carbohydrate supplementation. Various supplements were used widely among the athletes.