Graduate Program
Nutrition and Dietetics
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Semester of Degree Completion
2012
Thesis Director
Karla Kennedy-Hagan
Thesis Committee Member
Carla Honselman
Thesis Committee Member
Unknown
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the NEA knowledge and practices of collegiate athletes. Participants of the study included 152 Division I collegiate athletes from a small Midwestern university. Athletes were both male and female participants of rugby, basketball, baseball, soccer, swimming, and/or track and field during the 2011-2012 school year. A 14 item questionnaire was developed based on concepts associated with misconceptions or wide spread beliefs about these NEAs identified through review of sports nutrition peer reviewed research articles, published text books, and based on personal experiences with college athletes. Content accuracy was established by review of instrument by professionals in the field; further, validity and was established by a pilot study. The questionnaires were all completed simultaneously in a group setting in the presences of the researcher. Descriptive statistics were determined for all variables, including demographic information, use of NEAs, and knowledge based test scores.
The mean knowledge score for all athletes was 69%; NEA users had a mean score of 68.6%, while non-NEA users, had a mean score of 80%. Athletes appeared more knoweldgable about some concets than others; however, common misconceptions, scuh as supplements being a necessity, were held by some. Athletes using NEAs were found more likely to agree that nutritional supplements are the most effective way to build muscle and increase energy. Of the 152 participating athletes, only about half reported utilizing some form of NEA. The overwhelming majority of NEA users reported using protein, while creatine and caffeine were only being used by 15% and 8%, respectively. For men, building muscle was the main motivation, followed by doctor/coach recommendation. In women, the most popular reason for use was even cited between doctor/coach recommendations and to build muscle. By enhancing the NEA knowledge of athletes, they may be able to make more informed decisions in regard to NEA utilization, as well as overall nutrition for good health and optimal athletic performance.
Recommended Citation
Lewis, Mekenzie, "Evaluation of knowledge, beliefs and use of nutritional ergogenic aids among collegiate athletes" (2012). Masters Theses. 835.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/835
