Author(s): Rati Kshirsagar and Rekha Battalwar

Abstract:
Diet plays a vital role in athletic performance, recovery, and overall health. This study aimed to examine the impact of vegetarian versus non-vegetarian dietary patterns on weight and fitness management among 150 athletes (74 vegetarians, 76 non-vegetarians) aged 18-30 years in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Assessments included 24-hour dietary recalls, anthropometric measurements, physical performance tests, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SQ). The study found no significant differences in gender distribution, family type, or overall body composition between the groups (p>0.05), though significant differences were observed in marital and employment status, with vegetarians more likely to be unmarried and students, while non-vegetarians had a higher proportion of employed individuals. Non-vegetarians reported higher intakes of protein (p = 0.005), vitamin D (p = 0.000), and iron (p = 0.000), while vegetarians had higher intake of dietary fiber (p = 0.001) and vitamin C (p = 0.000). Both groups showed insufficient calcium and vitamin D intake. Correlation analysis revealed links between higher adiposity and increased energy and fat intake, and lower physical activity with reduced nutrient intake. The results suggest that well-planned vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets can support effective weight and fitness management in athletes.

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