Assessing the nutrition knowledge of professional female Australian football (AFLW) athletes

Abstract

ABSTRACT Nutrition education in professional sport may improve athletes’ nutrition knowledge (NK), self-efficacy and food choices. Understanding athletes’ NK can inform development of tailored nutrition education programs. To enhance health and performance, athletes’ dietary intakes must meet their energy and nutritional needs and NK has been identified as a modifiable determinant of dietary intake. This study aimed to assess the NK of Australian football league women’s (AFLW) athletes to provide recommendations for possible dietetic intervention. AFLW athletes (n = 26) were recruited from one Victorian football club. NK was assessed using the validated online Nutrition for Sport Knowledge Questionnaire. AFLW athletes scored ‘average’ overall NK (score: 45.1 ± 12.5, mean accuracy: 50.6 ± 14%). Athletes demonstrated better knowledge in alcohol (5.6 ± 1.9, mean accuracy: 70 ± 23%), macronutrients (18.2 ± 5.0, mean accuracy: 60 ± 17%) and weight management subsections (7.3 ± 2.2, mean accuracy: 57 ± 17%). Athletes performed poorly in the supplements subsection (3.2 ± 2.0, mean accuracy: 23 ± 14%). This study assessed the NK of AFLW athletes and found athletes had average NK, with room for improvement particularly regarding supplement knowledge. Future research should assess the efficacy of online and group education to improve athletes’ NK and dietary intake.