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Salamunes ACC, Williams NI, De Souza MJ. Are menstrual disturbances associated with an energy availability threshold? A critical review of the evidence. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2024; 49:584-598. [PMID: 38194640 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Exercising women have a high prevalence of menstrual disturbances. In 2003, it was suggested that disruption in luteinizing hormone (LH) pulsatility occurs below a threshold of energy availability (EA) of 30 kcal/kg lean body mass (LBM)/day. This paper is a critical review of the evidence regarding the theory that disruptions to the reproductive axis and menstrual disturbances occur below the proposed threshold. Short-term laboratory studies demonstrated that 4-5 days of an EA below 30 kcal/kg LBM/day, induced with or without exercise, decreased serum triiodothyronine and LH pulse frequency, and increased LH pulse amplitude in sedentary, regularly menstruating women. Fewer studies have investigated downstream ovarian effects after long-term exposure to low EA. The Sargent Camp Study was the first randomized trial that induced luteal phase defects, delayed menses, and anovulation by causing weight loss (-4 ± 0.3 kg) with an abrupt increase in exercise volume for two menstrual cycles. The BioEnergetics Study was a randomized controlled trial that induced varying levels of energy deficits by manipulating energy intake and expenditure for three menstrual cycles. LH pulse frequency and triiodothyronine decreased, and 57% of women developed luteal phase defects, anovulation, and/or oligomenorrhea. An EA below 30 kcal/kg fat free mass/day increased the chance of experiencing a menstrual disturbance by 50%. However, menstrual disturbances were observed above and below that EA threshold, and changes in LH pulse frequency predicted only luteal phase defects, not oligomenorrhea or anovulation. The proposed EA threshold is not a cut-off below which menstrual disturbances occur, but represents an increased risk of experiencing menstrual disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carla C Salamunes
- Women's Health and Exercise Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Nancy I Williams
- Women's Health and Exercise Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Mary Jane De Souza
- Women's Health and Exercise Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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2
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Nose-Ogura S, Yoshino O, Kamoto-Nakamura H, Kanatani M, Harada M, Hiraike O, Saito S, Fujii T, Osuga Y. Age and menstrual cycle may be important in establishing pregnancy in female athletes after retirement from competition. PHYSICIAN SPORTSMED 2024; 52:175-180. [PMID: 37019841 DOI: 10.1080/00913847.2023.2199687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although it has been shown that amenorrhea associated with low energy availability or relative energy deficiency in sport affects body physiology in female athletes, the association between menstrual dysfunction during active sports careers and reproductive function after retirement is not clear. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between menstrual dysfunction during their active sports career and post-retirement infertility in female athletes. METHODS A voluntary web-based survey was aimed at former female athletes who had become pregnant and gave birth to their first child after retirement. Nine multiple-choice questions were included, on maternal age, competition levels and menstrual cycles during active sports careers, time from retirement to pregnancy, the time of resumption of spontaneous menstruation after retirement, conception method, and mode of delivery, etc. Regarding cases of primary and secondary amenorrhea among the abnormal menstrual cycle group, only those whose spontaneous menstruation had not recovered from retirement to the time of pregnancy were included in the study. The association between the presence of abnormal menstrual cycles from active sports careers to post-retirement pregnancy and the implementation of infertility treatment was evaluated. RESULTS The study population included 613 female athletes who became pregnant and gave birth to their first child after retiring from competitive sports. Of the 613 former athletes, the infertility treatment rate was 11.9%. The rate of infertility treatment was significantly higher in athletes with abnormal than normal menstrual cycles (17.1% vs. 10.2%, p = 0.0225). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that maternal age (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.194; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.129, 1.262) and abnormal menstrual cycles (OR and 1.903; adjusted OR 1.105, 3.278) were the relevant factors for infertility treatment. CONCLUSION It was suggested that menstrual dysfunction that persist from active sports careers to post-retirement may be a factor in infertility when trying to conceive after retirement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka Nose-Ogura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Osamu Yoshino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yamanashi University, Yamanashi, Japan
| | | | - Mayuko Kanatani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miyuki Harada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Osamu Hiraike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shigeru Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sanno Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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3
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Lu Y, Lu P, Lin L, Chen H, Zhang F, Li X. Characteristics of bone mineral density in patients with functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea and its association with reproductive hormones and body composition. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2024; 100:358-365. [PMID: 38229276 DOI: 10.1111/cen.15016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Bone mineral density (BMD) is typically reduced in patients with female athlete triad (FAT) and anorexia nervosa (AN). However, bone health in most patients with functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea (FHA), who may not suffer from severe energy deficiency, has not received adequate attention in clinical practice. This study aimed to investigate BMD and its association with clinical and endocrine features in individuals with FHA and to provide clinical evidence for improving bone loss and preventing osteoporosis in FHA. DESIGN To assess the bone status of patients with FHA and investigate its association with various clinical and endocrinological characteristics. PATIENTS We retrospectively analysed 80 patients with FHA who attended the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University from January 2022 to March 2023. MEASUREMENTS The levels of reproductive hormones, including luteinising hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone, oestradiol (E2 ) and total testosterone (TT), were examined at the time of initial diagnosis, and a body composition analyser was used to measure body fat percentage (BF%), lean body mass (LBM) and segmental muscle/fat. Dual-emission X-ray absorptiometry was used to measure lumbar spine BMD and femoral neck BMD in patients with FHA, and the Z score was calculated. RESULTS The study cohort consisted of 80 female patients with FHA. The average age of the patients was 24.64 ± 6.02 years, and their body mass index (BMI) was 19.47 ± 2.86 kg/m2 . The duration of weight loss was 12 (6, 24) months, while the duration of oligo/amenorrhoea was 12 (4.5, 24) months. The mean degree of weight loss was 18.39 ± 9.53%. Low BMD were present in 15% of patients with FHA at the lumbar spine and/or femoral neck; 12.5% and 10% had low bone mass at the lumbar spine and femoral neck, respectively. The low bone mass group experienced a longer period of weight loss than the normal group [24 (16.5, 60) vs. 12 (4.5, 24) months, p = .037]. In addition, the abnormal group had a lower BMR (basal metabolic rate, BMR) [1158 ± 85 vs. 1231 ± 91 kcal/day, p = .011] and lower bone mineral content [2.15 ± 0.26 vs. 2.43 ± 0.31 kg, p = .009] than the normal group. Both LBMD and femoral neck BMD (Fn BMD) were positively correlated with BMI, BF%, LBM, and regional muscle/fat mass (all p < .05). There was also a positive correlation between LBMD and basal LH levels (p = .009) and waist-to-hip ratio (p = .034), whereas Fn BMD was positively correlated with TT levels (p = .029). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that LBM was positively associated with LBMD (β = .007, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.004-0.009, p < .001), while trunk muscle mass was positively associated with Fn BMD (β = .046, 95% CI = 0.013-0.080, p = .008). CONCLUSION Fifteen percent of the patients with FHA exhibited low bone mass, a condition associated with prolonged weight loss. The basal LH and TT levels showed positive correlations with LBMD and Fn BMD, respectively. Meanwhile, BMR levels, BMI, BF%, and muscle mass were all positively correlated with LBMD and Fn BMD. Clinically, we should be attentive to suboptimal bone health in patients with FHA and take early screening, diagnosis and intervention measures, especially appropriate muscle mass gain, to prevent the onset of osteoporosis and fragility fractures in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Lu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Sheyang County, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lixian Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Hospital of Putian City, Fujian, China
| | - Hang Chen
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feifei Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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4
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Stellingwerff T, Mountjoy M, McCluskey WT, Ackerman KE, Verhagen E, Heikura IA. Review of the scientific rationale, development and validation of the International Olympic Committee Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport Clinical Assessment Tool: V.2 (IOC REDs CAT2)-by a subgroup of the IOC consensus on REDs. Br J Sports Med 2023; 57:1109-1118. [PMID: 37752002 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-106914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) has various different risk factors, numerous signs and symptoms and is heavily influenced by one's environment. Accordingly, there is no singular validated diagnostic test. This 2023 International Olympic Committee's REDs Clinical Assessment Tool-V.2 (IOC REDs CAT2) implements a three-step process of: (1) initial screening; (2) severity/risk stratification based on any identified REDs signs/symptoms (primary and secondary indicators) and (3) a physician-led final diagnosis and treatment plan developed with the athlete, coach and their entire health and performance team. The CAT2 also introduces a more clinically nuanced four-level traffic-light (green, yellow, orange and red) severity/risk stratification with associated sport participation guidelines. Various REDs primary and secondary indicators have been identified and 'weighted' in terms of scientific support, clinical severity/risk and methodological validity and usability, allowing for objective scoring of athletes based on the presence or absence of each indicator. Early draft versions of the CAT2 were developed with associated athlete-testing, feedback and refinement, followed by REDs expert validation via voting statements (ie, online questionnaire to assess agreement on each indicator). Physician and practitioner validity and usability assessments were also implemented. The aim of the IOC REDs CAT2 is to assist qualified clinical professionals in the early and accurate diagnosis of REDs, with an appropriate clinical severity and risk assessment, in order to protect athlete health and prevent prolonged and irreversible outcomes of REDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trent Stellingwerff
- Canadian Sport Institute Pacific, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- Exercise Science, Physical & Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Margo Mountjoy
- Association for Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Kathryn E Ackerman
- Wu Tsai Female Athlete Program, Division of Sports Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Evert Verhagen
- Amsterdam Collaboration on Health and Safety in Sports and Department of Public and Occupational Health, VU University Medical Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ida A Heikura
- Canadian Sport Institute Pacific, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- Exercise Science, Physical & Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
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5
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Mountjoy M, Ackerman KE, Bailey DM, Burke LM, Constantini N, Hackney AC, Heikura IA, Melin A, Pensgaard AM, Stellingwerff T, Sundgot-Borgen JK, Torstveit MK, Jacobsen AU, Verhagen E, Budgett R, Engebretsen L, Erdener U. 2023 International Olympic Committee's (IOC) consensus statement on Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs). Br J Sports Med 2023; 57:1073-1097. [PMID: 37752011 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-106994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) was first introduced in 2014 by the International Olympic Committee's expert writing panel, identifying a syndrome of deleterious health and performance outcomes experienced by female and male athletes exposed to low energy availability (LEA; inadequate energy intake in relation to exercise energy expenditure). Since the 2018 REDs consensus, there have been >170 original research publications advancing the field of REDs science, including emerging data demonstrating the growing role of low carbohydrate availability, further evidence of the interplay between mental health and REDs and more data elucidating the impact of LEA in males. Our knowledge of REDs signs and symptoms has resulted in updated Health and Performance Conceptual Models and the development of a novel Physiological Model. This Physiological Model is designed to demonstrate the complexity of either problematic or adaptable LEA exposure, coupled with individual moderating factors, leading to changes in health and performance outcomes. Guidelines for safe and effective body composition assessment to help prevent REDs are also outlined. A new REDs Clinical Assessment Tool-Version 2 is introduced to facilitate the detection and clinical diagnosis of REDs based on accumulated severity and risk stratification, with associated training and competition recommendations. Prevention and treatment principles of REDs are presented to encourage best practices for sports organisations and clinicians. Finally, methodological best practices for REDs research are outlined to stimulate future high-quality research to address important knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margo Mountjoy
- Family Medicine, McMaster University Michael G DeGroote School of Medicine, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- Games Group, International Olympic Committee, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Kathryn E Ackerman
- Wu Tsai Female Athlete Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Louise M Burke
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Naama Constantini
- Sports Medicine Center, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Anthony C Hackney
- Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ida Aliisa Heikura
- Canada Sport Institute Pacific, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- Exercise Science, Physical & Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Anna Melin
- Department of Sport Science - Swedish Olympic Committee Research Fellow, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Anne Marte Pensgaard
- Department of Sport and Social Sciences, Norwegian School of Sports Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trent Stellingwerff
- Canada Sport Institute Pacific, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- Exercise Science, Physical & Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Evert Verhagen
- Amsterdam Collaboration on Health & Safety in Sports, Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Movement Science, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Richard Budgett
- Medical and Scientific Department, International Olympic Committee, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lars Engebretsen
- Medical and Scientific Department, International Olympic Committee, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Uğur Erdener
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
- World Archery, Lausanne, Switzerland
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6
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Burke LM, Ackerman KE, Heikura IA, Hackney AC, Stellingwerff T. Mapping the complexities of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs): development of a physiological model by a subgroup of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Consensus on REDs. Br J Sports Med 2023; 57:1098-1108. [PMID: 37752007 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-107335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
The 2023 International Olympic Committee (IOC) consensus statement on Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) notes that exposure to low energy availability (LEA) exists on a continuum between adaptable and problematic LEA, with a range of potential effects on both health and performance. However, there is variability in the outcomes of LEA exposure between and among individuals as well as the specific manifestations of REDs. We outline a framework for a 'systems biology' examination of the effect of LEA on individual body systems, with the eventual goal of creating an integrated map of body system interactions. We provide a template that systematically identifies characteristics of LEA exposure (eg, magnitude, duration, origin) and a variety of moderating factors (eg, medical history, diet and training characteristics) that could exacerbate or attenuate the type and severity of impairments to health and performance faced by an individual athlete. The REDs Physiological Model may assist the diagnosis of underlying causes of problems associated with LEA, with a personalised and nuanced treatment plan promoting compliance and treatment efficacy. It could also be used in the strategic prevention of REDs by drawing attention to scenarios of LEA in which impairments of health and performance are most likely, based on knowledge of the characteristics of the LEA exposure or moderating factors that may increase the risk of harmful outcomes. We challenge researchers and practitioners to create a unifying and dynamic physiological model for each body system that can be continuously updated and mapped as knowledge is gained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise M Burke
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kathryn E Ackerman
- Wu Tsai Female Athlete Program, Division of Sports Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ida A Heikura
- Canadian Sport Institute Pacific, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- Exercise Science, Physical & Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Anthony C Hackney
- Department of Exercise & Sport Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Trent Stellingwerff
- Canadian Sport Institute Pacific, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- Exercise Science, Physical & Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
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7
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Siedler MR, De Souza MJ, Albracht-Schulte K, Sekiguchi Y, Tinsley GM. The Influence of Energy Balance and Availability on Resting Metabolic Rate: Implications for Assessment and Future Research Directions. Sports Med 2023; 53:1507-1526. [PMID: 37213050 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01856-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is a significant contributor to an individual's total energy expenditure. As such, RMR plays an important role in body weight regulation across populations ranging from inactive individuals to athletes. In addition, RMR may also be used to screen for low energy availability and energy deficiency in athletes, and thus may be useful in identifying individuals at risk for the deleterious consequences of chronic energy deficiency. Given its importance in both clinical and research settings within the fields of exercise physiology, dietetics, and sports medicine, the valid assessment of RMR is critical. However, factors including varying states of energy balance (both short- and long-term energy deficit or surplus), energy availability, and prior food intake or exercise may influence resulting RMR measures, potentially introducing error into observed values. The purpose of this review is to summarize the relationships between short- and long-term changes in energetic status and resulting RMR measures, consider these findings in the context of relevant recommendations for RMR assessment, and provide suggestions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madelin R Siedler
- Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Mary Jane De Souza
- Departments of Kinesiology and Physiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | | | - Yasuki Sekiguchi
- Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Grant M Tinsley
- Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA.
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8
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Deepak Kumar K, Huntriss R, Green E, Bora S, Pettitt C. Development of a nutrition screening tool to identify need for dietetic intervention in female infertility. J Hum Nutr Diet 2023; 36:154-168. [PMID: 35762584 PMCID: PMC10087620 DOI: 10.1111/jhn.13055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One in seven couples are impacted by infertility in the UK, and female infertility is often associated with several health conditions impacted by nutrition. Despite many studies aimed at identifying the critical role of nutrition in infertility, there is currently no screening tool that identifies nutritional risk factors for infertility. AIM To propose a self-administered screening tool to identify women who would benefit from nutritional intervention to promote fertility. METHODS A narrative review was carried out to identify and summarise modifiable nutritional risk factors that can influence female fertility, including comorbidities that can influence nutrition intake, absorption, and metabolism. KEY FINDINGS A nutrition screening tool outlining modifiable nutrition risk factors potentially improving female fertility has been proposed, comprising of BMI, medical history and quality of diet and lifestyle which would aid in designing evidence based dietetic services for female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Claire Pettitt
- Nutrition and Dietetic Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, UK
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9
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Chen L, Lu Y, Zhou YF, Wang Y, Zhan HF, Zhao YT, Wang YL, Zhang FF, Chen H, Li X. The effects of weight loss-related amenorrhea on women's health and the therapeutic approaches: a narrative review. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2023; 11:132. [PMID: 36819572 PMCID: PMC9929756 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-6366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objective Weight loss-related amenorrhea is defined as the reversible functional inhibition of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis associated with weight loss or low body weight, which occurs mostly in adolescents and women of reproductive age. The specific pathological mechanisms of this disease have not yet been elucidated, and the optimal evidence-based guidelines for its clinical assessment and management are limited. This review summarizes its adverse effects on female health, and the individualized, emerging, and multidisciplinary therapeutic approaches used to treat it. Methods We searched the PubMed, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases for Chinese and English literature on functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA), and retrieved original articles (on basic and clinical research) and reviews published up to December 2022. Key Content and Findings We reviewed the findings on the unfavorable effects of weight loss-related amenorrhea with a focus on reproduction, the skeletal and cardiovascular system, other endocrine effects, and mental health. Lifestyle changes and hormonal replacement have been shown to alleviate the underlying causes and lead to the recovery of menstruation. However, the efficacy of treatments is affected by many factors, such as psychological stress and heterogeneity. Conclusions Weight loss-related amenorrhea, which is an important type of FHA, is manifested by anovulation and hypoestrogenism, and has both short- and long-term adverse effects on women's overall health. It is difficult to alleviate its underlying causes. Individualized treatments need to be optimized and emerging or multidisciplinary therapeutic approaches need to be explored that aim to recover normal menstruation and ovulation, eliminate the undesirable effects of prolonged hypoestrogenism and alleviate psychological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China;,Department of Gynecology, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University), Changsha, China
| | - Ye Lu
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Fan Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai-Feng Zhan
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China;,Department of Gynecology, Shanghai Jing’an Central Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Ting Zhao
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Lu Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei-Fei Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hang Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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10
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Behary P, Comninos AN. Bone Perspectives in Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea: An Update and Future Avenues. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:923791. [PMID: 35795153 PMCID: PMC9251506 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.923791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most important and potentially long-lasting detrimental consequences of Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhoea (FHA) is on skeletal homeostasis. Beyond oestrogen deficiency, FHA is associated with a cascade of additional neuro-endocrine and metabolic alterations, some adaptive, but which combine to disrupt skeletal homeostasis. Ultimately, this leads to a two-fold increased risk of fractures in women with FHA compared to healthy eumenorrhoeic women. Although the cornerstone of management of FHA-related bone loss remains recovery of menses via restoration of metabolic/psychological balance, there is rapidly developing evidence for hormonal manipulations (with a particular emphasis on route of administration) and other pharmacological treatments that can protect or improve skeletal homeostasis in FHA. In this mini-review, we provide an update on the pathophysiology, clinical management and future avenues in the field from a bone perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Preeshila Behary
- Endocrine Bone Unit, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander N. Comninos
- Endocrine Bone Unit, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Endocrinology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
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11
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Shirley MK, Longman DP, Elliott-Sale KJ, Hackney AC, Sale C, Dolan E. A Life History Perspective on Athletes with Low Energy Availability. Sports Med 2022; 52:1223-1234. [PMID: 35113390 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-022-01643-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The energy costs of athletic training can be substantial, and deficits arising from costs unmet by adequate energy intake, leading to a state of low energy availability, may adversely impact athlete health and performance. Life history theory is a branch of evolutionary theory that recognizes that the way the body uses energy-and responds to low energy availability-is an evolved trait. Energy is a finite resource that must be distributed throughout the body to simultaneously fuel all biological processes. When energy availability is low, insufficient energy may be available to equally support all processes. As energy used for one function cannot be used for others, energetic "trade-offs" will arise. Biological processes offering the greatest immediate survival value will be protected, even if this results in energy being diverted away from others, potentially leading to their downregulation. Athletes with low energy availability provide a useful model for anthropologists investigating the biological trade-offs that occur when energy is scarce, while the broader conceptual framework provided by life history theory may be useful to sport and exercise researchers who investigate the influence of low energy availability on athlete health and performance. The goals of this review are: (1) to describe the core tenets of life history theory; (2) consider trade-offs that might occur in athletes with low energy availability in the context of four broad biological areas: reproduction, somatic maintenance, growth, and immunity; and (3) use this evolutionary perspective to consider potential directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan K Shirley
- Division of GI, Hepatology and Nutrition, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Daniel P Longman
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Kirsty J Elliott-Sale
- Musculoskeletal Physiology Research Group, Sport Health and Performance Enhancement Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Anthony C Hackney
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Craig Sale
- Musculoskeletal Physiology Research Group, Sport Health and Performance Enhancement Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Eimear Dolan
- Applied Physiology and Nutrition Research Group, School of Physical Education and Sport, Rheumatology Division, Faculdade de Medicina FMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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12
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Adolescence and young adulthood are a critical period in the life of women for optimizing long-term bone health. Young athletes lead a demanding lifestyle with increased dietary requirements to meet the robust demands of energy expenditure to maintain a state of energy balance. During a time of fast paced changes and unpredictable societal demands on young athletes, it is important to review the severe consequences of energy deficiency and options for adequate management. RECENT FINDINGS This review focuses on hormonal adaptations that occur in energy deficient female athletes that lead to menstrual irregularities and impaired bone health, increasing the risk for stress and other fractures. We also describe management strategies to mitigate the consequences of limited energy availability on bone and other outcomes. SUMMARY These strategies should help guide the management of young female athletes to prevent irreversible changes to their bone health. Identifying current knowledge should help increase awareness among medical providers, which can then be communicated to the sports community, parents, and athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Maya
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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13
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De Souza MJ, Strock NCA, Ricker EA, Koltun KJ, Barrack M, Joy E, Nattiv A, Hutchinson M, Misra M, Williams NI. The Path Towards Progress: A Critical Review to Advance the Science of the Female and Male Athlete Triad and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport. Sports Med 2021; 52:13-23. [PMID: 34665451 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-021-01568-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Energy status plays a key role in the health of athletes and exercising individuals. Energy deficiency/low energy availability (EA), referring to a state in which insufficient energy intake and/or excessive exercise energy expenditure has resulted in compensatory metabolic adaptations to conserve fuel, can affect numerous physiological systems in women and men. The Female Athlete Triad, Male Athlete Triad, and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) models conceptualize the effects of energy deficiency in athletes, and each model has strengths and limitations. For instance, the Female Athlete Triad model depicts relationships between low EA, reproductive, and bone health, underpinning decades of experimental evidence, but may be perceived as limited in scope, while the more recent RED-S model proposes a wider range of potential health effects of low EA, though many model components require more robust scientific justification. This critical review summarizes current evidence regarding the effects of energy deficiency on athlete health by addressing the quality of the underlying science, the strengths and limitations of each model, and highlighting areas where future research is needed to advance the field. With the health and wellness of athletes and exercising individuals as the overarching priority, we conclude with specific steps that will help focus future research on the Female and Male Athlete Triad and RED-S, and encourage all researchers, clinicians, and practitioners to collaborate to support the common goal of promoting the highest quality science and evidence-based medicine in pursuit of the advancement of athletes' health, well-being, and performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Jane De Souza
- Department of Kinesiology and Physiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Nicole C A Strock
- Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Emily A Ricker
- Consortium for Health and Military Performance, Department of Military and Emergency Medicine, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, USA.,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, USA
| | - Kristen J Koltun
- Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Michelle Barrack
- Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
| | | | - Aurelia Nattiv
- Department of Sports Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mark Hutchinson
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Madhusmita Misra
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nancy I Williams
- Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
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14
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Kreisman MJ, Tadrousse KS, McCosh RB, Breen KM. Neuroendocrine Basis for Disrupted Ovarian Cyclicity in Female Mice During Chronic Undernutrition. Endocrinology 2021; 162:bqab103. [PMID: 34037744 PMCID: PMC8272537 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Chronic undernutrition is a type of metabolic stress that impairs reproduction in multiple species. Although energy balance and female reproductive capacity is recognized as tightly coupled, the neuroendocrine loci and molecular mechanisms that mediate ovarian cycle dysfunction during chronic undernutrition in adult females remain poorly understood. Here, we present a series of studies in which we tested the hypothesis that inhibition of kisspeptin (Kiss1) neurons, which are critical for controlling luteinizing hormone (LH) pulses and the preovulatory LH surge in females, underlies the impairment of the ovarian cycle by undernutrition. We first investigated the effect of chronic undernutrition (70% of unrestricted feed intake) on estrous cyclicity in intact female c57bl6 mice. Undernutrition caused a rapid cessation of ovarian cyclicity during the 2-week treatment, suppressing ovarian steroidogenesis and inhibiting ovulation. Using 2 well-defined estradiol-replacement paradigms, we directly tested the hypothesis that undernutrition inhibits Kiss1 neurons in the arcuate nucleus (ARCKiss1), which are required for LH pulses and in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPVKiss1), which are necessary for LH surge secretion. Undernutrition prevented LH pulses and impaired ARCKiss1 neuronal activation, using c-Fos as a marker, in ovariectomized females subcutaneously implanted with a pellet containing a diestrus-like level of estradiol. In addition, undernutrition completely blocked the estradiol-induced LH surge and diminished Kiss1 messenger RNA abundance, without decreasing estradiol receptor α (Erα), in micropunches of the AVPV. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that undernutrition disrupts ovarian cyclicity in females via impairment both of ARCKiss1 control of LH pulses and AVPVKiss1 induction of the LH surge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Kreisman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674, USA
| | - Kirollos S Tadrousse
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674, USA
| | - Richard B McCosh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674, USA
| | - Kellie M Breen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0674, USA
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15
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Boutari C, Pappas PD, Mintziori G, Nigdelis MP, Athanasiadis L, Goulis DG, Mantzoros CS. The effect of underweight on female and male reproduction. Metabolism 2020; 107:154229. [PMID: 32289345 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2020.154229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chronic energy deficiency can impair the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and lead to hypothalamic anovulation in underweight women. This review presents the syndromes related to underweight status that are associated with infertility, summarizes the underlying mechanisms, and reviews the available treatment options. Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa (AN), constitute the most common cause of infertility in underweight women, who, in addition, experience miscarriages, and sexual dysfunction. The relative energy deficiency in sports (RED-S; former terminology: athlete's triad) involves menstrual dysfunction due to low energy availability, which results in anovulation. Moreover, lipodystrophies, malnutrition, starvation, systematic illnesses (malignancies, endocrinopathies, infectious diseases, advanced chronic diseases, neurologic illnesses), and the utilization of drugs can cause excessive weight loss. They may result in fertility problems due to the loss of adipose tissue and the subsequent hormonal disturbances. Each of these conditions requires multidisciplinary management. Nutritional counseling should target the restoration of energy balance by increasing intake and reducing output. Medical treatment, recommended only for patients who did not respond to standard treatment, may include antipsychotics, antidepressants, or leptin administration. Finally, psychiatric treatment is considered an integral part of the standard treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrysoula Boutari
- Department of Medicine, Boston VA Healthcare System and Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Panagiotis D Pappas
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1(st) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Gesthimani Mintziori
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1(st) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Meletios P Nigdelis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1(st) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Loukas Athanasiadis
- 3(rd) Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios G Goulis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1(st) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Department of Medicine, Boston VA Healthcare System and Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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