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Tag: Low energy availability

Explore our comprehensive collection of health articles in this category.

How to fix underfueling to boost performance and health

4 min read
According to sports dietitians, consistently underfueling can lead to a state of Low Energy Availability (LEA), which negatively impacts performance and recovery. If you're experiencing chronic fatigue, decreased performance, or mood shifts, learning how to fix underfueling is critical for your overall health and athletic progress.

What are the symptoms of underfueling and how to recognize them?

4 min read
According to research cited by InsideTracker, persistent underfueling can lead to Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) in both men and women, affecting metabolic rate, bone health, and immunity. Recognizing the symptoms of underfueling is crucial for maintaining optimal health and performance for anyone with an active lifestyle.

How do I know if I have low energy availability?

5 min read
According to a systematic review published in 2024, nearly 45% of athletes across various sports were found to have low energy availability (LEA). So, how do I know if I have low energy availability? This condition occurs when energy intake doesn't match energy expenditure, forcing the body to conserve energy by compromising critical functions like metabolic rate, bone health, and hormone production. Recognizing the warning signs is the first crucial step toward protecting your health and athletic performance.

How to Diagnose Low Energy Availability: A Comprehensive Assessment Guide

4 min read
Over 60% of elite athletes report feeling pressure related to body composition, a factor that can contribute significantly to low energy availability (LEA). Understanding how to diagnose low energy availability is a crucial step towards preventing the serious health and performance consequences associated with this condition.

Understanding the Symptoms of Low Calories and Their Health Implications

5 min read
According to a study published in the BMJ Journal of Nutrition, low-calorie diets can negatively impact mood, especially among dieters. Understanding the symptoms of low calories is crucial for anyone monitoring their nutritional intake, as a significant caloric deficit can trigger a cascade of adverse physical and mental health effects.

The Prevalence of REDs: How Common Is Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport?

4 min read
Recent studies suggest that up to 80% of female athletes and 70% of male athletes may experience or be at risk for Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs), a condition with serious health and performance consequences. This widespread issue, driven by low energy availability, can severely impact an athlete's physical and psychological well-being.

Can Boys Get RED-S? Understanding Male Athlete Underfueling

4 min read
While traditionally associated with female athletes, research shows that between 15% and 70% of male athletes across various sports can be affected by Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S). This syndrome, caused by a mismatch between energy intake and energy expenditure, can have severe health and performance consequences for boys and men.

What Happens If You Have Enough Nutrients But Not Enough Calories?

4 min read
According to the International Olympic Committee, a state known as Low Energy Availability (LEA) can occur when the body's energy intake is insufficient to cover energy expenditure, even with high nutrient consumption. This energy deficit raises a critical question: what happens if you have enough nutrients but not enough calories?

Do you have to be underweight to have RED-S?

4 min read
According to the International Olympic Committee, Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) can affect athletes of any gender, age, or ability level, regardless of their body size. The answer to "Do you have to be underweight to have RED-S?" is a definitive no, as the syndrome is caused by a caloric deficit relative to exercise demands, not by low body weight itself.