An Overview of a Dietary Pattern Among Malaysian Endurance Athletes in Relation to Glycemic Index

Nowadays, there is a significant increase in endurance sports participation globally. The types, amount and timing of meals consumed by the endurance athletes will influence the endurance performance. This study aims to identify the commonly consumed foods among endurance athletes and their relation to the glycemic index (GI). A preliminary cross-sectional study was conducted among 20 endurance athletes. A set of the questionnaire assessed on respondents’ background, anthropometry and 24-h diet recall was administered through face-to-face interview with the respondents. The food items that contributed to the highest percentage of energy and macronutrients intake represented the commonly consumed foods. The GI value of the foods was determined based on the reference to the published value. The findings showed that white rice (GI = 83), fried rice (GI = 59), fried chicken, cordial drink (GI = 66) and malt-based drink (GI = 55) were among the top contributors to the total energy intake. The findings from this study provided the idea of the commonly consumed foods among endurance athletes in relation to GI. It can provide a foundation to develop the mixed-meal menus that meet the dietary requirement and preferences of the endurance athletes.