Selected aspects of the habitual diet and levels of intestinal permeability markers of Polish alpinists

The purpose of this study is to investigate selected aspects of habitual diet and levels of intestinal permeability markers in a group of Polish mountaineers. The study included 17 men aged 30.29 ± 5.8 years characterized by long climbing experience (10 ± 5 years) in sport climbing and mountaineering. The study included a quantitative analysis of the alpinists’ diet and the determination of zonulin and alpha-1-antitrypsin levels in fecal samples using the ELISA technique. Less than half of the group covered their energy needs in accordance with the recommendations. Most climbers (70.59%) met the carbohydrate requirement, however, the fiber supply was not provided at an adequate level in 23.53% of individuals. All climbers met the requirements for protein and fats. More than one-fifth (23.53%) of them exceeded the normative values for fats, while 5.88% for protein. Mountaineers did not provide adequate amounts of selenium and iodine, as well as vitamins D and K. Fecal zonulin values were elevated in 35.29% of the climbers tested, while fecal alpha-1-antitrypsin values were normal in all subjects. Individuals engaged in climbing and alpine activities are at risk of energy restriction and/or low energy availability. The climbers mostly provided adequate amounts of macro- and micronutrients with their diets. In most of the climbers studied, intestinal permeability was adequate, although elevated zonulin values were observed in some individuals with normal AAT concentrations. These preliminary findings indicate the need for nutritional education and further studies in larger cohorts.