Author(s): Jenifer Antony, Arksitha Thamodharan, Sethuraman Karthikeyan, Sreeja Nair Venugopalan and Yaamini Lakshmanan

Abstract:
This study examined the nutritional knowledge, dietary perceptions, eating behaviors, and stress management strategies among 102 sports students at PSG College of Arts & Science, Coimbatore. The sample comprised 77 males (75.5%) and 25 females (24.5%), with 67% maintaining a healthy BMI. A structured questionnaire assessed macronutrient and micronutrient knowledge, hydration awareness, disordered eating behaviors, and stress-coping mechanisms. Results indicated moderate nutritional awareness, with misconceptions regarding fat metabolism, hydration, and energy drinks. Females scored higher in dietary perception (t = 2.388, p<0.05), and disordered eating behaviors were prevalent, with 54.9% reporting weight-related anxiety. Chi-square analysis (χ² = 7.603, p<0.05) showed a significant gender-based association with restrictive dieting. High stress levels were noted, though no demographic-based differences were found. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions, including nutrition education, psychological counselling, and mindfulness training, to enhance performance, promote healthy habits, and improve resilience among student-athletes.

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