College bodybuilders consume macronutrients irregularly throughout the day with predominant intake of animal source proteins

Abstract

Introduction: Intake of proper amounts of macronutrients and high-quality proteins throughout the day might present an impact on muscle recovery and adaptation induced by resistance training.

Objectives: Evaluate the distribution of macronutrients and protein sources intake in each meal consumed by college bodybuilders.

Materials and Methods: 90 college bodybuilders were assessed. Food intake was evaluated through three 24h food records. Two of them were collected during weekdays on training days and the other one during weekends, with no training. Participant’s weight, height and body composition were determined.

Results: Participants presented irregular intake of energy and macronutrients throughout the day, concentrated at lunch and dinner, indicating them both as the day’s main meals. The consumption of animal protein sources was predominant in every meal, with higher percentage at dinner (80,72%) and at postworkout meal (80,87%). Participants who trained six times a week presented significantly higher protein and energy intake, compared to those who trained three or four times a week. (p<0,05).

Conclusion: We concluded that college students consume energy and macronutrients distributed in an irregular way throughout the day and proteins intake are predominantly from animals sources.