Evaluation of body composition and food profile in boxing athletes

Boxing is divided into categories according to their weight, to minimize the differences exerted by the weight on strength and speed. Drastic changes in body composition are frequently practiced in this modality, and strategies of food restriction and severe dehydration are practiced by these athletes. Therefore, the objective of this study was to carry out an assessment of the food profile and body composition in boxing athletes. This is a cross-sectional study, in which 14 male athletes were evaluated, with a mean age of 24.9 +/- 6.3 years. In anthropometry, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), arm and waist circumferences, as well as skinfolds thickness were measured. To assess the food profile, three 24-hour recalls were applied, and the average of the three days was used. The average BMI was 27.4 +/- 6.0 kg/m(2) and the average fat percentage was 15.7 +/- 8.8%. The average caloric intake was 1960.7 +/- 528.0 kcal/day, the protein intake was 1.5 +/- 0.5 g/kg/day, and the carbohydrate consumption was 2.81 +/- 1.5 g/kg/day. Regarding micronutrients, most athletes (>50%) had an insufficient consumption of fibers, calcium, magnesium, potassium, selenium, and vitamins A, B9, B2, B6, C, D and E. This study appears as one of the first to evaluate the dietary profile and body composition in boxing athletes, helping to understand their nutritional needs, aiming to preserve health and enhance sports performance in all phases of training in this sport.