Effect of physical activity on energy and nutrient intake in young university students: a bayesian analysis

Abstract

Background: Physical activity is one of the main actions in order to reduce the prevalence of obesity. High performance sport increases energy consumption but there is no conclusive evidence about the effect of physical activity to achieve a healthy life on energy intake. Objective: To determine if physical activity to achieve a healthy life changes energy and nutrient intakes. Materials and methods: Two study groups made up of women, one with physical activity according to recommended levels to maintain health and the other one not. The statistical analysis was made taking into account a mixed effects model. Results: physical activity to achieve a healthy life doesn´t increase neither energy nor protein intakes although it increases fat, carbohydrate and cholesterol intakes. Fiber intake was not affected, but it was very low. Conclusions: reduction in energy intake could determine a negative caloric balance that favors the loss of body fat maintaining body mass. People with more physical activity neglected diet quality. Variability patterns observed corresponds to typical populations with non monotonous diets.