Abstract

There are many myths about the positive influence of vegetarian diets on the physical capacity and performance of athletes and dancers. To the best of our knowledge there is an absence of scientific work in this area. Forty-nine athletes who were lacto-ovo or lacto vegetarian for at least two years, and a similar number of non-vegetarian athletes (matched for age, sex, body size and athletic activities), were examined. The anthropometric measurements included weight, height, skin fold thicknesses, lung functions, and flexibility. The subjects underwent medical examination including resting and exercise ECG and blood pressure measurement. The functional examination included an orthostatic test, cycle ergometer stress test and the Wingate anaerobic test. Laboratory examination included urine examination for protein and sugar and blood analysis for hemoglobin, hematocrit, uric acid, blood proteins and glucose. All the examinees answered a questionnaire regarding their past and present health, life style (smoking, physical activities, employment), sport injuries and reasons for becoming vegetarians. Statistical analysis using t test for measurable parameters and chi-square for others, was performed. There were no differences in the aerobic or anaerobic capacities of vegetarian men or women compared to non-vegetarians. Blood uric acid concentration was significantly higher in non-vegetarian males, although it was within the range of normal values. Verf.-Referat