Energy Availability & RED-S

Energy availability is the energy left over for the body's basic functions after the cost of training is subtracted from food intake. When it stays too low for too long — through under-eating, over-training or both — the result is called relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S).

What published research reports

The International Olympic Committee consensus statement on RED-S (2018 update) reports that sustained low energy availability impairs menstrual function, bone health, immunity, protein synthesis and cardiovascular health, in male as well as female athletes, and is associated with reduced training response, impaired judgement, decreased coordination and increased injury risk. The statement reports that the syndrome is frequently missed because affected athletes may appear lean and high-performing in the short term, and it recommends screening and treatment through qualified medical and dietetic support.

References

• Mountjoy M, et al. IOC consensus statement on relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S): 2018 update. Br J Sports Med. 2018;52:687–697. PubMed