Abstract
This study represents the inaugural investigation into the nutritional status of professional Moroccan football players. The aim of this research was to assess the energy and macronutrient consumption of elite football athletes during their preseason training phase while concurrently exploring possible associations between physical Fitness (PF) especially cardiorespiratory endurance (VO2max), macronutrient intake, and body composition. 27 footballers from a Moroccan professional league, 'Botola-Pro', in a consecutive 7 study during a microcycle of the preseason period. Dietary intake was assessed using self-reported methods, supplemented by 24- hour recalls, and body composition was measured using bioelectrical impedance (BI). The Yo-Yo IR test was employed to evaluate cardiorespiratory endurance. The football players had an energy intake significantly below their requirements. Average carbohydrate (CHO) intake fell below the recommendations set by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). However, protein intake was in line with recommendations (1.6 to 2.2 g/kg), and fat intake slightly exceeded the recommended values. The CHO intake was notably lower than recommended. A positive correlation was observed (p < 0.001 and r: 0,831) between CHO and VO2max. These results suggest that increasing carbohydrate consumption is associated with improved performance, especially within the range of 6 to 8 g/kg of body mass per day. Conversely, a negative correlation was identified (p < 0.01 and r: -0,514) between the body fat mass (BFM) and VO2max. In conclusion, the results of this study underscore aspects of nutrition that could be improved among professional football players to optimize their performance, longevity, and body composition. Therefore, a personalized care approach is highly recommended.
Description
This study investigates the nutritional status and performance correlations of Moroccan professional soccer players.