Abstract
A survey of university student athletes was conducted to determine supplement use,
perceived efficacy of supplements, availability and use of nutrition services, and
perceived nutrition knowledge of athletic trainers. Results from 236 athletes showed
that 88% used one or more nutritional supplements, yet perceived efficacy was moderate
(2.9 or less; 5-point scale). Classes (69.4%), brochures (75%), and individual counseling
(47%) were available and were used by 29.9%, 33.2%, and 17.9% of athletes, respectively.
Primary sources of nutrition information were athletic trainers (39.8%), strength
and conditioning coaches (23.7%), and dietitians (14.4%). Athletes perceived athletic
trainers to have strong nutrition knowledge (mean=3.8±0.9; 5-point scale). Many (23.5%)
did not know whether a dietitian was available. Dietitians must accelerate their marketing
efforts to student athletes, work closely with athletic trainers to provide sound
nutrition information, and provide services that meet the needs of a diverse population
of student athletes.
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Biography
R. D. Burns is head athletic trainer, Louisiana Tech University, Ruston, LA, USA, and at the time of study was a graduate student at the School of Allied Medical Professions, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH
Biography
M. R. Schiller is a professor in the Medical Dietetics Division
Biography
M. A. Merrick is an assistant professor in the Athletic Training Division and K. N. Wolf is an associate professor in the Medical Dietetics Division, School of Allied Medical Professions, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH.
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© 2004 American Dietetic Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
