Key result
Although calculated energy availability indicated no risk for low energy availability, 78% of female para-athletes were at risk using the LEAF-Q, and 56% had clinically low hip bone mineral density.
Why the study?
To examine the symptoms of low energy availability and risk of relative energy deficiency in sport symptoms in para-athletes using a multi-parameter approach.
Cross-Sectional (n=18)
Significant discrepancies exist between calculated energy availability and clinical/hormonal markers, suggesting standard assessment tools may not accurately capture RED-S risk in para-athletes.
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Standard EA calculations may underestimate RED-S risk in para-athletes; hypothesis-generating for adapted screening tools in this population.
Pritchett et al. (2021) conducted a cross-sectional in Low energy availability and relative energy deficiency in sport (n=18). Low energy availability and RED-S risk assessment was evaluated on Symptoms of low energy availability and risk of relative energy deficiency in sport. Although calculated energy availability indicated no risk for low energy availability, 78% of female para-athletes were at risk using the LEAF-Q, and 56% had clinically low hip bone mineral density.
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