Availability of a sports dietitian may lead to improved performance and recovery of NCAA division I baseball athletes

Background: the purpose was to survey dietary habits (dh) and nutrient timing (nt) practices of baseball student-athletes (mean ± sd; 20.7 ± 1.4 yr.) from three ncaa division i institutions,and examine the effect of a sports dietitian (sd) in regard to nutrition practices.methods: descriptive statistics and pearson x2 analyses were run. responses on 10 dh and 5 nt items differed (p ≤ 0.10) between athletes who sought dietary planning from a sd (n = 36) versus those who consulted a strength and conditioning coach (scc,n = 42).results: in regard to dh items,the sd group found it easier to eat before activity (92% vs. 71%,p = 0.03),did not consume fast food (31% vs. 14%,p = 0.02),caffeinated beverages (57% vs. 46%,p = 0.02),or soda (56% vs. 37%,p = 0.10),prepared their own meals more often (86% vs. 73%,p = 0.07),and took daily multi-vitamins (56% vs. 32%,p = 0.02). the scc group ate more at burger locations (21% vs. 6%,p = 0.02). in regard to nt items,the sd group ate breakfast before training/lifting sessions (67% vs. 37%,p = 0.02),and had post-workout nutrition options provided (61% vs. 27%,p = 0.01). the scc group reported pre-competition meals of fast food (58% vs. 45%,p = 0.01),and sport coaches who were less aware of healthy food options (39% vs. 65%,p = 0.05).conclusions: the sd is as a valuable asset to an intercollegiate athletics program. in the current study,athletes from the sd group consumed less high calorie/low nutrient dense items,ate before exercise,and consumed healthier options post-exercise. the presence of a sd was linked to provision of healthier food options during team trips. the evidence-based eating strategies and dietary plan provided by a sd may lead to improved performance and recovery.