Introduction: This study examines the impact of inadequate diets on athletes' performance and health during competitions. It explores the various dietary patterns athletes typically follow, the complications arising from poor nutrition, long-term health consequences, common dietary mistakes, specific challenges faced by different groups, and the significance of personalized nutrition plans. Methods: Researchers conducted a literature search utilizing multiple electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scopus. The search strategy incorporated Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) along with free-text terms, to enhance article retrieval. The use of keywords combined with Boolean operators enabled the identification of all relevant studies. The initial search yielded numerous records for evaluation, and reference manager software was employed to organize all identified studies. Results: A review of peer-reviewed literature from 2016 to 2025 indicates that generalized or incorrect dietary plans can result in diminished aerobic capacity, prolonged recovery times, heightened injury risk, and hormonal imbalances. Conclusions: Conversely, athletes adhering to personalized nutrition plans demonstrate improved endurance, quicker recovery, and enhanced overall health. Effective nutritional strategies are crucial for maximizing athletic performance and minimizing health risks. Sports nutritionists play an essential role in crafting individualized approaches that address the specific needs of athletes.
Ebardo et al. (Fri,) studied this question.