RISKS OF Low ENERGY AVAILABILITY

Low Energy Availability

Being a Performance Nutritionist,  it is important for my coaching to ensure sufficient energy is available for the body to carry out physiological processes that are important for client health. This is important for you to recognise as well. However, anyone may fail to match their energy intake to their energy demands. If this occurs on a daily basis, for a prolonged period of time, the body can enter into a state of Low Energy Availability (LEA), where the body may begin to save energy by shutting off those important physiological processes that are important for health. LEA is the underlying cause of the conditions known as Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) and the Female Athlete Triad. Even though the term is completed “in Sport” there is evidence of this in all populations but was initially discovered within the sporting context. It is important to note that LEA can affect both females and males.

Here are some potential signs and risk factors which may indicate than an individual is experiencing LEA;  an individual does not need to show all of these symtoms to be in LEA.

1. Chronic dietary restriction and/or extreme dieting

2. Menstrual irregularities or complete loss of menstrual cycle

3. Perfectionist tendencies

4. Continual and constant drive for thinness

5. Frequent injuries

6. Low bone mineral density

7. Over training

8. Training inconsistencies and/or constant fatigue

9. Regular illnesses/signs of compromised immunity

10. Poor recovery between training sessions

11. Issues with concentrating

12. Reduced libido

13. Low iron levels

14. Reduced resting metabolic rate

15. Decreased cardiovascular function

16. Osteoporosis

If you are experiencing any of these issues please advise speaking to your GP or hire a nutritionist. I would also suggest reducing exercise volume. If you are purposefully reducing volume for competition, then fine. If you are reducing volume in the gym or reducing endurance because your body is not recovering then there are serious over training issues; you have been doing too much.