Evaluation of factors influencing food choices among Lebanese weightlifters and football players

Abstract

Abstract Background Athletes are required to make optimal food choices to maintain a healthy diet and maximize performance. However, they often struggle to effectively translate nutritional recommendations into suitable dietary choices. Objectives This study aimed to examine the food choices of Lebanese male athletes, focusing on weightlifters (n = 30) and football players (n = 30) on both rest and workout days, in a free choice setting at a university cafeteria. Methods Participants completed a 24-hour dietary recall interview on their rest and workout days, allowing energy, macro, and micronutrient intake estimation, and filled in a food choice questionnaire to explain motivations behind their lunch selections. Results Significant differences (p < 0.05) in protein, cholesterol, and vitamin D were observed between weightlifters and football players on workout days. Weightlifters showed significant variations in energy, protein, fats, saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), calcium, potassium, and vitamin D across days, while football players displayed significant changes in energy and carbohydrate intake. On rest days, weightlifters chiefly based their food choices on nutritional content (33%), sensory appeal (26%), and familiarity (21%), with similar patterns on workout days. Football players prioritized familiarity (33% on rest days, 21% on workout days), nutritional value, and sensory attributes, showing a slight shift towards nutrition on workout days. Conclusion The study highlights a gap in adherence to nutritional guidelines among Lebanese athletes, suggesting the need for targeted nutrition strategies tailored to sport type and daily demands that account for food choice motivations.