Explore the impact of low energy availability and RED-S in athletes, including signs, calculations, and the 2018 IOC consensus.
Low energy availability (LEA) is a critical concept in sports nutrition that refers to a state where an athlete's energy intake is insufficient to meet their energy expenditure. This condition can lead to various health issues, collectively termed Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S). In this guide, we will explore the definition of LEA and RED-S, the 2018 International Olympic Committee (IOC) consensus on the topic, methods for calculating energy availability, and the warning signs athletes should monitor.
Low energy availability occurs when an athlete's dietary energy intake is insufficient to cover their energy expenditure, particularly when considering the energy used during training and competition. This imbalance can lead to a range of physiological and psychological issues, including:
According to the IOC consensus, LEA can occur in both male and female athletes, but it is particularly prevalent in sports that emphasize leanness or have weight categories, such as gymnastics, wrestling, and distance running.
Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) is a syndrome that encompasses a range of health issues resulting from LEA. The 2018 IOC consensus statement defines RED-S as a condition that affects various bodily systems, including:
A systematic review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine in 2020 indicated that approximately 30% of athletes across various sports may experience RED-S symptoms, highlighting the need for awareness and prevention strategies.
The consensus statement from the IOC in 2018 provided a comprehensive overview of RED-S, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing low energy availability in athletes. Key points from the consensus include:
To monitor energy availability, athletes can use the following equation:
Energy Availability (EA) = (Energy Intake - Exercise Energy Expenditure) / Fat Mass
Where:
Let’s consider an example of a female athlete:
Using the equation:
In this example, the athlete has an energy availability of 170 kcal/kg fat mass, which is above the recommended threshold of 30 kcal/kg lean mass, suggesting they are not in a state of LEA.
| Energy Availability (kcal/kg lean mass) | Health Status | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 30 | At risk of RED-S | Immediate intervention needed |
| 30–45 | Potential risk of health issues | Monitor closely |
| Above 45 | Healthy | Maintain energy balance |
Athletes should be vigilant for the following warning signs that may indicate the presence of RED-S:
Recognizing these signs early can facilitate prompt intervention and help restore energy balance, thereby mitigating the risks associated with RED-S.
Low energy availability is a serious concern for athletes, leading to RED-S and a range of health complications. Understanding how to calculate energy availability and recognizing the warning signs can empower athletes and coaches to maintain optimal health and performance. Regular monitoring and education about energy balance are essential for preventing RED-S and ensuring long-term athletic success.
Low energy availability occurs when an athlete's energy intake is insufficient to support their energy expenditure, leading to a negative energy balance.
Warning signs of RED-S include fatigue, decreased performance, menstrual dysfunction, and increased injury risk.
Athletes can calculate energy availability by using the formula: Energy Availability = (Energy Intake - Exercise Energy Expenditure) / Fat Mass.