NUTRITIONAL PROFILE OF CHADIAN ELITE COMBAT ATHLETES: A QUANTITATIVE APPROACH IN THE PRE-COMPETITIVE PHASE

Nutritional balance represents a fundamental determinant of both athletic performance and health, particularly within elite combat disciplines, which are frequently exposed to dietary imbalances. The present investigation sought to quantitatively assess energy intake alongside macro- and micronutrient profiles in Chadian elite combat athletes during the pre-competitive phase. This prospective cross-sectional study included 63 athletes (32 men and 31 women), aged between 16 and 29 years. Dietary intake was evaluated using a 24-hour recall method, applying a multifactorial approach. Findings revealed significantly higher energy intake among men (3414.44 - 210.21 kcal/day) compared with women (2665.54 - 257.01 kcal/day; p < 0.0001), consistent with international recommendations for athletes. Protein intake was adequate (1.73 - 0.37 g/kg/day in men; 1.59 - 0.57 g/kg/day in women), with no statistical difference (p > 0.05). Lipid intake accounted for 30% of total energy in men and 28% in women (p > 0.05), considered satisfactory. Carbohydrate intake met recommended standards but was significantly higher in men (7.34 - 1.14 g/kg/day) compared with women (6.34 - 1.05 g/kg/day; p < 0.001). At the micronutrient level, excessive intakes of iron and phosphorus were observed, while a marked calcium deficiency affected both sexes (p < 0.0003). Intakes of vitamins B1, B2, B6 and C were generally adequate,albeit slightly above recommended thresholds. These results highlight the need for targeted educational strategies to address identified imbalances and optimise competitive preparation in Chadian athletes.