General and pre-competition phases in young elite gymnasts: Eating behaviors, dietary intake, and somatotype.

Abstract

In women 's artistic gymnastics, factors such as somatotype, nutritional status, and pubertal development have been widely examined because body size and composition considerably affect performance in this highly technical sport. Young elite gymnasts represent a nutritionally vulnerable population, with increased nutritional needs resulting from both their growth and biological maturation and the intense demands of daily training. This study aimed to determine dietary intake, body composition, and eating behavior in a group of young female gymnasts over the course of a competitive season. Twelve elite gymnasts participated (n = 12), with a mean age of 17.61 ± 3.39 years, and an age range of 14-25 years. Two assessments were conducted across two consecutive training periods (general preparation and pre-competitive), separated by a six-month interval. Body composition was evaluated using anthropometry (ISAK protocol), and dietary composition was assessed by weighing foods over three consecutive days, analyzing energy intake, macronutrients, and micronutrients (calcium, iron, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12). Eating behavior was assessed using the MEQ and KIDMED questionnaires. No significant differences between periods were observed in energy intake (p = .992), carbohydrates (p = .204), lipids (p = .348), or calcium intake (p = .248). However, significant differences were found in protein intake (p = .042), iron (p = .028), vitamin B6 (p = .023), and vitamin B12 (p = .003). Carbohydrate and several mineral intakes fell below the established updated recommendations, while lipid intake exceeded the stipulated ranges. Body composition remained relatively stable; however, height (p = .005) and bone mass (p = .047) showed significant differences during the pre-competitive phase. A predominance of the mesomorphic somatotype component was observed across both periods (general: 4.45 vs. precompetitive: 4.71). Non-significant improvements were detected in Mediterranean diet adherence, degree of mindful eating, and diet quality during the pre-competitive phase. Nevertheless, a significant positive correlation was found between the KIDMED index and the DIAL diet quality index (r = 0.601; p < .001). In conclusion, despite slight improvements observed between seasons, dietary intake remained below the updated nutritional recommendations established for elite gymnasts. The young gymnasts presented suboptimal dietary patterns across both periods, with no evidence of nutritional planning adjusted to the training cycle or competitive calendar. Specific nutritional education interventions targeting gymnastics, coaches, and families are needed to promote long-term athletic performance and health.