New research led by South East Technological University (SETU) exploring the relationship between nutrition, visual function and performance in precision sports has been published in the international peer-reviewed journal Frontiers in Nutrition.
The study, The Effects of Macular Carotenoids and Omega-3 Supplementation on Performance in Precision Sports: The Sport Nutrition in Performance Exercise (SNIPE) Study, was led by Professor John Nolan of the Nutrition Research Centre Ireland (NRCI) at SETU.
The research was undertaken in collaboration with Parimala Sivaperuman, senior dietitian and researcher at the High Performance Sport Institute (HPSI) in Singapore. Parimala is also a PhD candidate working with Professor Nolan at SETU.
Exploring nutrition and visual performance
Commencing in 2022, the SNIPE study examined whether supplementation with macular carotenoids and omega-3 fatty acids could influence visual function and performance among athletes participating in precision sports.
Visual function can be particularly important in precision sports, where athletes rely on their ability to rapidly process visual information and respond accurately.
According to the researchers, the findings provide evidence that supplementation with macular carotenoids and omega-3 fatty acids can enhance aspects of visual function and performance among precision-sport athletes and players.
The research also identified a relationship between sleep and the enrichment of these nutrients in the eye and brain.
Building on research at SETU
The SNIPE study builds on previous research undertaken by Professor Nolan and colleagues at NRCI, including the CREST trials, which examined the role of macular carotenoids in visual and cognitive function.
Describing the publication as an important continuation of this work, Professor Nolan said, “The SNIPE study allowed us to look at nutrition and visual function in a very applied setting, working with athletes for whom vision is an important part of performance.
“The findings build on our previous research at NRCI and give us further insight into the potential role of these nutrients in supporting visual function.”
Professor Nolan also highlighted the international collaboration underpinning the research. “Our work with the High Performance Sport Institute in Singapore has been an important part of the study, and I would particularly like to acknowledge Parimala’s contribution to the research. In addition, I would like to acknowledge the support of the Howard Foundation UK.”
What is particularly interesting about this research is its relevance across a range of disciplines, from sports nutrition and sports science to eye health and athlete performance."
Parimala Sivaperuman, PhD Candidate
International collaboration
For Parimala Sivaperuman, one of the most interesting aspects of the study is its potential relevance across several areas of sports science and healthcare.
“What is particularly interesting about this research is its relevance across a range of disciplines, from sports nutrition and sports science to eye health and athlete performance,” she said.
“We hope the findings will encourage further discussion and research into the role that nutrition can play in supporting visual health and function among athletes.”
Contributing to SETU’s research impact
Professor Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact at SETU, congratulated Professor Nolan, Parimala and the wider research team on the publication.
“This research demonstrates the value of bringing different areas of expertise together and developing international collaborations which can translate research knowledge into practical settings,” Professor Van Hout said.
“It is encouraging to see research undertaken at SETU contributing to the international evidence base and opening further opportunities for collaboration and research in this field. I congratulate John, Parimala and the wider team on the publication.”
The study, The Effects of Macular Carotenoids and Omega-3 Supplementation on Performance in Precision Sports: The Sport Nutrition in Performance Exercise (SNIPE) Study, is published in Frontiers in Nutrition, and can be accessed here.