Macro partitioning
Female endurance athletes unintentionally underfuel with carbohydrates relative to training volume, creating a cumulative energy deficit, while simultaneously prioritizing protein intake to meet or exceed recommendations.
Female endurance athletes should prioritize carbohydrate intake on training days to match volume, as deficits increase significantly with higher loads. Do not neglect rest days; even low-intensity sessions require adequate fuel to prevent cumulative energy deficits. While protein intake is often correctly prioritized, ensure it does not displace necessary carbohydrates. Address psychological barriers like body image and time constraints by planning simple, accessible carbohydrate sources for all training days, not just hard sessions.
Quantitative analysis revealed that athletes met the lower end of carbohydrate (CHO) guidelines on rest days (3.0 g·kg−1), but intake fell short on training days, with deficits increasing as training volume rose... In contrast, protein intake was prioritised, with mean intakes of 1.7 ± 0.7 g·kg−1·day−1 aligning with recommendations.
Why this rating
Multi-method design with objective dietary assessment (weighed food diaries) and qualitative interviews on a sample of 72 athletes.
Source
Unintentional Underfuelling and Protein Prioritisation: A Multi-Methods Exploration of Nutrition Practices and Behaviours in Female Endurance Athletes
Harvey O. Fortis et al. · Nutrients · 2025
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