Abstract

This study was performed to compare food consumption patterns, dietary behavior, and nutrition knowledge between Korean professional soccer players and the non-athletic males. Data were collected from 53 soccer players working for Korean professional soccer clubs and 44 non-athletic males, using self-administered questionnaires. There were significant differences in food consumption frequency between two groups. Meats and eggs, fishes and shellfishes, sea weeds were consumed more frequently by the soccer players. The frequency scores of foods rich in iron, calcium, and protein were also higher in the soccer players compared with the non-athletes. Meanwhile, the consumption of alcohol was more frequent in the non-athletes. As for the cooking method, the soccer players showed higher preference for steaming/parboiling and consumed raw vegetables and fruits more frequently than the non-athletic males (p < 0.05). The average scores of soccer players on nutrition knowledge for basic nutrition and athletic nutrition were lower than the respective values of the non-athletic males. However, the soccer players showed better eating behaviors and dietary habits compared with non-athletic males (p < 0.001). They had well-balanced, regular diet and good habits for chronic disease prevention. No significant relationship could be observed with respect to nutrition knowledge and nutritional behavior. Moreover, the experience of getting nutrition information did not affect either nutrition knowledge score or nutritional habits score, except that for habits of chronic disease prevention in non-athletes. Therefore, it is suggested that more effective and practical nutrition education program be needed for promoting healthy eating habits and improving nutritional status in young males.

• Keywords: Korean professional soccer players; non-athletic males; food frequency; dietary behavior; nutrition knowledge