NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND SUPPLEMENT USE IN PARALYMPIC ATHLETES IN YOGYAKARTA: INSIGHTS FROM A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: Athletes with disabilities face unique physiological and nutritional challenges that can affect
performance, recovery, and overall health. However, limited data exist on dietary intake and nutritional status
of Paralympic athletes in low- and middle-income countries, including Indonesia. This study aimed to assess
nutritional status, dietary intake, and supplement use among Paralympic athletes in Yogyakarta.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 99 athletes participating in 2024 regional
training programme under National Paralympic Committee Yogyakarta. Data were collected through
anthropometric measurements, vital sign assessments, structured dietary recall (three-day method), and
questionnaires on supplement use and health history. Descriptive statistics and cross-tabulations were used to
analyse dietary patterns and nutritional status.
Results: Mean daily energy intake was 1,950.6 kcal (SD ±866.3), with wide inter-individual variation.
Carbohydrates contributed most to total energy intake. Micronutrient analysis revealed frequent deficiencies
in vitamins A, C, and E, while some athletes exceeded recommended sodium and cholesterol levels. Mean
BMI was 23.6 kg/m², with 18.9% classified as underweight and 31.6% as overweight or obese. Supplement
use was inconsistent, with multivitamins and vitamin C being the most common. Sport-specific trends
indicated both under- and overnutrition risks.
Conclusion: Paralympic athletes in Yogyakarta exhibit diverse and often suboptimal nutritional patterns.
Nutritional monitoring, personalised dietary planning, and structured supplement guidance are recommended
to optimise performance and health outcomes. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to evaluate long-term
effects of targeted nutritional interventions in this population.