Evaluation of total antioxidant capacity of diet and training load in professional female basketball players based on training periods

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and training load across different training periods on body composition, biochemical markers, and physical fitness parameters in professional female basketball players. The study was conducted between November 2024 and April 2025 with 14 professional female basketball players from Tarsus Sports Club, located in Tarsus, Mersin. Data were collected in three phases—preparatory, competition, and transition periods—and repeated measurements were taken at the end of each phase. Anthropometric measurements, biochemical parameters, physical fitness evaluations, dietary intake records, and training load assessments were used in the study. According to the findings, a significant increase in muscle mass and a significant decrease in HOMA-IR levels were observed across the training periods, with a linear downward trend in HOMA-IR. A significant increase in waist circumference was found during the transition period, while a significant decrease in body fat percentage based on skinfold thickness was observed between the preparatory and competition periods. No significant differences were found in other anthropometric (e.g., body weight, height, BMI) and biochemical parameters (e.g., fasting blood glucose, LDL, insulin). Although the total antioxidant capacity did not show statistically significant differences between periods, some period-based fluctuations were observed. There were no statistically significant differences in physical fitness or training load parameters; however, training load values were higher during the preparatory period. These findings indicate that seasonal training and nutrition strategies can affect certain metabolic and compositional outcomes in professional female athletes. Based on the results, it is emphasized that not only training load but also nutrition strategies that support individual physiological responses should be considered during season planning, and that evaluating training and nutrition together offers a holistic approach for enhancing athletic performance and overall health.