Nutrition, Motivation, And Mental Resilience: Effects Of Individualized Nutritional Programs On Basketball Players

Abstract

This study examined the impact of individualized nutritional interventions on psychological well-being, achievement motivation, emotional regulation, and stress levels among basketball players in Mizoram, India. Utilizing a quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test control group design, 200 players (100 intervention, 100 control) aged 18–24 years were assessed. The intervention group received an 8–12 week tailored nutritional plan based on their psychological profiles. Tools used included the WHO-5 Well-Being Index, Sports Motivation Scale, Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ-India), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), along with dietary recalls and anthropometric measures.

Results indicated significant improvements in the intervention group across all psychological parameters: well-being (p < 0.01), motivation (p = 0.02), emotional regulation (p = 0.04), and stress reduction (p < 0.01). Nutritional status improvements—particularly in vitamin C, protein, and omega-3 intake—were positively correlated with psychological gains, while excessive fat and carbohydrate intake were linked to higher stress levels. Anthropometric outcomes, including reductions in BMI and waist circumference, also improved significantly.

The findings validate the hypothesis that nutrition plays a pivotal role in enhancing both physical and psychological performance in athletes. This study underscores the importance of integrating personalized nutritional strategies into sports training programs to support mental resilience and holistic athlete development.