PURPOSE This study aimed to evaluate energy availability and dietary intake among female Korean national handball players and to examine the effects of sports nutrition on their dietary habits. METHODS Sixteen players from the 2024 Korean women’s national handball team participated in the study. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was used to assess body composition. Low energy availability (LEA) was assessed using the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q). Dietary intake was evaluated before and after a sports nutrition education program using seven consecutive 24-hour recalls. Professional nutrition analysis software was utilized to assess weekday and weekend intakes of major macro- and micro-nutrients. A face-to-face nutrition education session was provided after the first dietary intake survey. The program covered the functions and recommended levels of macro- and micronutrients, specifically focusing on their link to sports performance. RESULTS Based on the LEAF-Q assessment, 37.5% of female national handball players were classified as being at risk, with particularly high tendencies of suffering injuries (62.5%) and gastrointestinal symptoms (75%). Following the nutrition education intervention, fat-free mass and skeletal muscle mass increased significantly, while fat mass and body fat percentage decreased (p < .05). Improvements were also observed in dietary intake of the players, with a significant increase in carbohydrate and protein consumption and a reduction in fat intake, along with achieving recommended levels on both weekdays and weekends. However, intakes of vitamin D, calcium, and iron remained below recommended levels before and after the intervention. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that female national handball players faced insufficient energy availability and nutrient imbalances, particularly in vitamin D, calcium, and iron. Nutrition education prompted favorable changes in body composition and macronutrient intake, confirming its effectiveness. These findings highlight the importance of ensuring adequate energy intake, while persistent micronutrient gaps underscore the need for sustained, specific nutritional strategies.
