From Diabetic Nutritional Intake to Athlete Satisfaction: Role of Sport Engagement and Psychological Resistance to Return Post-Injury

Abstract

Purpose: In the setting of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of diabetic nutritional intake on athletes’ psychological resistance to return after an injury, sport engagement, and athlete satisfaction. The study’s overarching goal is to learn how diabetic athletes’ emotional and mental preparedness, level of participation in and enjoyment of their activity, and level of satisfaction with their performance are affected by proper dietary control. Method: The study included 144 Saudi athletes from diverse places. Using scales from previous studies, a constructed questionnaire was used to collect data. ADANCO for Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to assess measurement reliability, validity, and hypothesised construct linkages. Findings: Athletes’ psychological resistance, sport engagement, and athlete satisfaction were all found to be highly impacted by diabetic nutritional intake. Researchers discovered that participation in sporting activities mediates the connections between dietary consumption and psychological resistance and satisfaction, while psychological resistance in turn mediated the connection between dietary consumption and athlete satisfaction. Originality/Implications: This study shows how personalised diet can increase athletic performance by reducing psychological barriers and increasing engagement. Dietary management boosts athletes’ performance and satisfaction, offering coaches, players, and nutritionists realistic recommendations.