Diet quality is sub-optimal in masters distance runners

Summary

This cross-sectional study examined diet quality and its association with sports nutrition knowledge in masters distance runners (aged ≥35 years, training ≥30 km/week) in Australia. Dietary intake was assessed via 3-day food records and analysed using the Dietary Guideline Index, whilst nutrition knowledge was measured using a validated questionnaire. The findings contribute to understanding whether reliance on sports nutrition products in this population displaces whole foods and whether nutrition knowledge is associated with better overall diet quality.

Regional applicability

The study was conducted in Australia using Australian dietary guidelines, but the findings are likely relevant to United Kingdom masters athletes insofar as diet quality assessment frameworks and sports nutrition product usage patterns are comparable. Transferability would be strengthened by confirmation that the Dietary Guideline Index and A-NSKQ questionnaire are validated in UK populations, and whether training volumes and product availability differ materially.

Key measures

Dietary Guideline Index (DGI) total scores (0–120) and sub-scores for core foods (0–70) and non-core foods (0–50); Abridged Nutrition for Sport Knowledge Questionnaire (A-NSKQ, % correct); 3-day food records; age; BMI; weekly running distance

Outcomes reported

The study assessed diet quality using the Dietary Guideline Index (DGI) and sports nutrition knowledge using the Abridged Nutrition for Sport Knowledge Questionnaire (A-NSKQ) in masters distance runners aged ≥35 years. Associations between diet quality scores and nutrition knowledge were evaluated.

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