Effects of age and gender on dietary habits of people engaged in sports at the age of 40 and older

Objective: to analyze how eating habits depend on age and gender among people aged 40 and over engaged in sports (athletics, participation in 10 km or more road running races). Materials and methods: the information about eating habits was obtained through questionnaires of athletes aged 40 and over, participating in 10 km or more road running races. 1649 questionnaires were analyzed. The analysis was carried out in three age groups: 40–49 years old, 50–59 years old, and 60 years old and over. Results: more than half of men and a third of women do not follow any principles in organizing their diet. The most common habit, regardless of gender, is eating three or more times a day. The largest amount of food is consumed in the middle of the day and in the afternoon. Most of the respondents try to eat at the same time of the day, when there is such an opportunity. Snacking between main meals is a widespread habit, especially among women. Despite the fact that the majority of men and 30 % of women often consume flour products and products containing sugar, they are not overweight. Conclusion: most of the athletes aged 40 and over do not aim to follow a diet or improve nutrition.