Abstract:
Proper nutrition is an important consideration for athletes, who seek to maximize their
performance. The carbohydrate, fat and protein nutrients provide the necessary energy to
maintain body function during rest and various forms of physical activity. The purpose of this
study was to assess macronutrients intake and energy balance of football players of Dire
Dawa Kenema FC. This study is significant for athletes, nutritionists, coaches and other
concerned bodies to enhance the knowledge of dietary assessment and to determine the
nutritional status of individuals. The study design was descriptive survey method. The source
of population consisted of 25 football players and 5 cookers (chefs) of Dire Dawa Kenema
FC. Then 20 players (80%) and 1 best qualified chef (20%) were taken through purposive
sampling method. The data were collected through questionnaire, interview, observation and
dietary assessment. Data were analyzed using computerized statistical package soft ware
SPSS version 20. According to major findings of the study, the average daily energy intake of
players was 3705.1 kcal where as the average energy expenditure consumed to support basal
activities, physical exercise for 135 minutes and thermic effect of food was a total of 3357.6
kcal per a day. The daily amount of players calorie input and calorie output was positively
balanced i.e. calorie input was greater than calorie output due to this players were not energy
deficient. The percent distribution of each macronutrient in the daily meal was 13.2 % for
protein, 22.8 % for fat and 64 % for carbohydrate of the total daily calorie intake. The daily
intake of protein, fat and carbohydrate was 1.8, 1.3 and 8.5 gram per kilogram of body
weight per day respectively. Based on this, it was recommended that the club should supply
additional foods to assist unplanned movement of players and the players should take care of
excessive intake outside the camp. In addition the club should provide players with sport
drinks and must work with qualified nutrition experts in consulting and preparing food menu.
