Food patterns in Chilean ultra-marathon runners

Objective: To determine the dietary patterns of Chilean ultra-marathoners. Methods: A cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach was carried out to study the eating habits of Chilean ultra-marathoners by means a validated survey of eating habits. The sample included 20 ultra-marathoners (n = 3 women) who averaged to 33.0 +/- 7.8 years old, 71.1 +/- 6.6 kilos weight and height 1.72 +/- 0.05 meters. Results: Chilean ultra-marathoners presented a low food consumption according to the recommended servings of fruits, vegetables, fish and legumes, but a moderate intake of sugary drinks, sweet snacks and alcohol. However, the intake of fried foods (65%) was the most common unhealthy habit and the 75% of them reported consume breakfast daily. Conclusion: Chilean ultra-marathoners have a low compliance of the recommended number of daily servings by food groups, despite the great physical effort.