Positive association of lean mass and negative association of protein intake on bone mass and bone geometry of adolescent soccer players.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of food consumption and body composition on bone parameters in adolescent soccer players.

Methods: There were 148 male soccer players 12 to 18 y who participated in the study. Body composition was assessed by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, comprising bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) of total body without head (TBLH), lumbar spine (L1-L4), and right femoral neck (RFN). The bone geometry variables measured were femoral strength index (FSI), buckling ratio (BR), section modulus (Z), cross-sectional moment of inertia (CSMI), and cross-sectional area (CSA). Food intake was analyzed using the 24-h food recall. Somatic maturation was estimated by the peak height velocity equation. For the statistical analysis, the stepwise multiple linear regression was used, with P < 0.05.

Results: Regarding food consumption, there was a high protein intake and low calcium intake. Lean mass was a predictor of BMC of TBLH (R = 0.524), L1-L4 (R = 0.492), and RFN (R = 0.405); BMD of L1-L4 (R = 0.407) and RFN (R = 0.27); Z (R = 0.683), CSMI (R = 0.630), and CSA (R = 0.640). There was a negative correlation between protein intake with bone mass and bone geometry parameters.

Conclusion: In adolescent soccer players, lean mass was a predictor of bone parameters, and high protein intake was negatively associated with bone mass and geometry.