The Effect of a Nutrition Program for Weight Loss during the Pre-competition Period on the Body Composition, Hydration, and Mood Profile of Elite Greco–Roman Wrestlers

Abstract

Abstract Objective The study aimed to investigate the effect of a nutrition program introduced among elite Greco–Roman wrestlers during weight loss period prior to the competition on the athletes’ body composition, hydration, and mood. Methods The experimental group comprised from the Greco–Roman Wrestling National Team (U23) of different weights (n = 8) and the control group consisted of substitute athletes (n = 8) with the same weights with the experimental group. To achieve the target weight, the experimental group followed a personalized weight loss program under the supervision of a dietitian, whereas the control group lost weight using their own methods. The athletes completed a mood profile questionnaire, food and fluid consumption, urine density evaluation, anthropometric measurements, and body composition assessments were performed. Results The athletes who followed a balanced diet under the guidance of a dietician had decreased body mass index, body weight, body fat rates (%) and urine density compared to the athletes who used traditional methods (P< 0.05). Negative changes in the control group and positive changes in the experimental group were observed in the mood profile scores (P< 0.05). There was a higher decrease in variables, including energy (kcal), carbohydrate (g/kg), protein (g/kg), fat (g/kg) and micronutrient consumption, in the control group (P< 0.05).Conclusion Change in nutritional intake at the macro and micro level was found to be more balanced among male athletes who followed a regular and planned nutrition program under a dietitian’s supervision. In addition, the experimental group had decreased body fat percentages and urine density, and underwent a positive change as confirmed by their mood profile.