Nutritional status and body composition of adolescent female gymnasts.

Nutritional status and body composition of 26 young female gymnasts (average age 12 years) were studied. The body fat percentage (15% of total body weight) is low, still consistent with an excellent health. The caloric intake is lower (1552 kcal/day) than that recommended for their age group, however it is still within the standard by body weight (43 kcal/kg). They show and insufficient assumption of carbohydrates (47.7%), mineral salts and vitamins, so that a more detailed alimentary information is required in order to avoid undesired consequences on sport performance and growth rate.