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Vardardottir B, Olafsdottir AS, Gudmundsdottir SL. A real-life snapshot: Evaluating exposures to low energy availability in male athletes from various sports. Physiol Rep 2024; 12:e16112. [PMID: 38923409 PMCID: PMC11194298 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.16112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Problematic low energy availability (LEA) is the underlying cause of relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs). Male specific etiology, as well as the duration and degree of LEA exposures resulting in REDs remain to be adequately described. The present study aimed to assess occurrences of LEA (energy availability [EA] <25 kcal/kg fat-free mass/day) in male athletes from various sports over 7 days. Associations between number of LEA days, physiological measures, and body image concerns were subsequently evaluated. The athletes recorded their weighed food intakes and training via photo-assisted mobile application. Body composition and resting metabolic rates were measured, and venous blood samples collected for assessments of hormonal and nutrition status. Participants also answered the Low Energy Availability in Males Questionnaire (LEAM-Q), Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire Short (EDE-QS), Exercise Addiction Inventory (EAI), and Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder Inventory (MDDI). Of 19 participants, 13 had 0-2, 6 had 3-5, and none had 6-7 LEA days. No associations were found between the number of LEA days with the physiological and body image outcomes, although those with greatest number of LEA days had highest EEE but relatively low dietary intakes. In conclusion, this group displayed considerable day-to-day EA fluctuations but no indication of problematic LEA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birna Vardardottir
- Faculty of Health Promotion, Sport & Leisure StudiesUniversity of IcelandReykjavikIceland
| | - Anna S. Olafsdottir
- Faculty of Health Promotion, Sport & Leisure StudiesUniversity of IcelandReykjavikIceland
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2
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Vardardottir B, Gudmundsdottir SL, Tryggvadottir EA, Olafsdottir AS. Patterns of energy availability and carbohydrate intake differentiate between adaptable and problematic low energy availability in female athletes. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1390558. [PMID: 38783864 PMCID: PMC11111999 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1390558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Problematic low energy availability (EA) is the underlying culprit of relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs), and its consequences have been suggested to be exacerbated when accompanied by low carbohydrate (CHO) intakes. Objectives This study compared dietary intake, nutrition status and occurrence of REDs symptoms in groups of female athletes, displaying different patterns of EA and CHO intake. Methods Female athletes (n = 41, median age 20.4 years) from various sports weighed and recorded their food intake and training for 7 consecutive days via a photo-assisted mobile application. Participants were divided into four groups based on patterns of EA and CHO intakes: sufficient to optimal EA and sufficient to optimal CHO intake (SEA + SCHO), SEA and low CHO intake (SEA + LCHO), low energy availability and SCHO (LEA + SCHO), and LEA and LCHO (LEA + LCHO). SEA patterns were characterised by EA ≥30 and LEA by EA <30 kcal/kg fat free mass, and SCHO patterns characterised by CHO intake ≥3.0 and LCHO <3.0 g/kg body weight for most of the registered days. Body composition was measured with dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, resting metabolic rate with indirect calorimetry and serum blood samples were collected for evaluation of nutrition status. Behavioural risk factors and self-reported symptoms of REDs were assessed with the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire, Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire Short (EDE-QS), Exercise Addiction Inventory, and Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder Inventory. Results In total, 36.6% were categorised as SEA + SCHO, of which 5/16 were ball sport, 7/10 endurance, 1/7 aesthetic, 2/5 weight-class, and 0/3 weight-class athletes. Of LEA + LCHO athletes (19.5% of all), 50% came from ball sports. Aesthetic and endurance athletes reported the greatest training demands, with weekly training hours higher for aesthetic compared to ball sports (13.1 ± 5.7 vs. 6.7 ± 3.4 h, p = 0.012). Two LEA + LCHO and one SEA + LCHO athlete exceeded the EDE-QS cutoff. LEA + LCHO evaluated their sleep and energy levels as worse, and both LEA groups rated their recovery as worse compared to SEA + SCHO. Conclusion Repeated exposures to LEA and LCHO are associated with a cluster of negative implications in female athletes. In terms of nutrition strategies, sufficient EA and CHO intakes appear to be pivotal in preventing REDs.
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3
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Sim A, Tan HQ, Ali Y, Burns SF. Original investigation: manipulating energy availability in male endurance runners: a randomised controlled trial. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2024. [PMID: 38713922 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2024-0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of 4 days low energy availability (LEA) on physiological markers and mood states in male endurance runners. Twelve participants (mean (standard deviation); age: 25.8 (3.8) years; fat-free mass (FFM): 52.8 (5.5) kg) completed three 4-day conditions: adequate energy availability (AEA): 45 kcal/kg FFM/day; LEA1: 30 kcal/kg FFM/day; and LEA2: 15 kcal/kg FFM/day, in a randomized order. Participants ran on a treadmill at 65% of V̇O2max until they expended 15 kcal/kg FFM/day of energy. Energy intake was adjusted to achieve the desired energy availability. Pre- and post-measurements of bone turnover, metabolism, testosterone and estradiol (plasma), resting metabolic rate (indirect calorimetry), and mood states (Brunel Mood Scale) were assessed. The results reported a significant decrease in testosterone (condition × time interaction, p = 0.03) occurred on LEA2 (Pre: 23.8 (7.0) nmol/L vs. Post: 20.3 (7.7) nmol/L) compared with AEA (Pre: 22.9 (5.5) nmol/L vs. Post: 23.3 (6.1) nmol/L) or LEA1 (Pre: 23.6 (8.6) nmol/L vs. Post: 20.9 (8.8) nmol/L). Fatigue level significantly increased (condition × time interaction, p = 0.02) in LEA2 (Pre: 3.5 (1.7) vs. Post: 6.5 (2.9)) but did not change in AEA (Pre: 2.8 (1.5) vs. Post: 2.5 (2.7)) or LEA1 (Pre: 2.8(2.4) vs. Post: 2.9 (2.0)). Other measures were unaffected by the interventions. In conclusion, this study suggests that testosterone and fatigue may serve as early indicators of LEA in male runners. However, other physiological markers and mood states appeared largely unaffected, aligning with existing literature indicating minimal disruption of physiological functions during acute LEA in male athletes. Study registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (Trial No.: 381278).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexiaa Sim
- Physical Education and Sports Science, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, 637616, Singapore
| | - Hui Qing Tan
- Physical Education and Sports Science, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, 637616, Singapore
| | - Yusuf Ali
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 308232, Singapore
| | - Stephen F Burns
- Physical Education and Sports Science, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, 637616, Singapore
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4
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Õnnik L, Mooses M, Suvi S, Haile DW, Ojiambo R, Lane AR, Hackney AC. Influence of energy availability on metabolic hormonal profiles in east African female and male distance runners. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2024; 64:490-495. [PMID: 38305005 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.23.15253-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Energy availability (EA) and relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S) are understudied in East African endurance athletes, both females (F) and males (M). This study assessed the metabolic hormonal profiles of such athletes relative to their EA status. METHODS Forty athletes (F=16, M=24) had their EA status, training, maximal oxygen uptake, and resting blood samples assessed using standard research practices. Subjects were stratified into two groups, high EA (HiEA) and low EA (LoEA) based on combined median value. RESULTS Cortisol (P=0.034) and insulin (P=0.044) were significantly elevated in the LoEA group, while growth hormone (P=0.045) was significantly suppressed; and, prolactin (P=0.078) trended towards suppression, respectively compared to the HiEA group. All other hormonal comparison were non-significant. CONCLUSIONS Metabolic hormonal profiles of female and male African distance runners are affected by their EA status. Aspects of these alterations agree in part with published findings based upon White populations, although some differences exist and need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Robert Ojiambo
- Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
- University of Global Health Equity, Butaro, Rwanda
| | - Amy R Lane
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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5
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Melin AK, Areta JL, Heikura IA, Stellingwerff T, Torstveit MK, Hackney AC. Direct and indirect impact of low energy availability on sports performance. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2024; 34:e14327. [PMID: 36894187 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14327] [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] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Low energy availability (LEA) occurs inadvertently and purposefully in many athletes across numerous sports; and well planned, supervised periods with moderate LEA can improve body composition and power to weight ratio possibly enhancing performance in some sports. LEA however has the potential to have negative effects on a multitude of physiological and psychological systems in female and male athletes. Systems such as the endocrine, cardiovascular, metabolism, reproductive, immune, mental perception, and motivation as well as behaviors can all be impacted by severe (serious and/or prolonged or chronic) LEA. Such widely diverse effects can influence the health status, training adaptation, and performance outcomes of athletes leading to both direct changes (e.g., decreased strength and endurance) as well as indirect changes (e.g., reduced training response, increased risk of injury) in performance. To date, performance implications have not been well examined relative to LEA. Therefore, the intent of this narrative review is to characterize the effects of short-, medium-, and long-term exposure to LEA on direct and indirect sports performance outcomes. In doing so we have focused both on laboratory settings as well as descriptive athletic case-study-type experiential evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Melin
- Department of Sport Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, Swedish Olympic Committee Research Fellow, Linnaeus University, Växjö/Kalmar, Sweden
| | - José L Areta
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Science, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ida A Heikura
- Canadian Sport Institute - Pacific, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- Exercise Science, Physical & Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Trent Stellingwerff
- Canadian Sport Institute - Pacific, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- Exercise Science, Physical & Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Monica Klungland Torstveit
- Department of Sport Science and Physical Education, Faculty of Health and Sport Science, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Anthony C Hackney
- Department of Exercise & Sport Science, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Peeling P, Sim M, McKay AKA. Considerations for the Consumption of Vitamin and Mineral Supplements in Athlete Populations. Sports Med 2023; 53:15-24. [PMID: 37358750 PMCID: PMC10721676 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01875-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Vitamins and minerals are of fundamental importance to numerous human functions that are essential to optimise athlete performance. Athletes incur a high turnover of key vitamins and minerals and are therefore dependent on sufficient energy intake to replenish nutrient stores. However, many athletes are poor at servicing their energy replenishment needs, especially female athletes, and although a 'food first approach' to meeting nutrient requirements is the primary goal, it may be important for some athletes to consider a vitamin and/or mineral supplement to meet their daily needs. When working to determine if an athlete requires vitamin or mineral supplements, practitioners should use a robust framework to assess the overall energy requirements, current dietary practices and the biological and clinical status of their athletes. Of note, any supplementation plan should account for the various factors that may impact the efficacy of the approach (e.g. athlete sex, the nutrient recommended dietary intake, supplement dose/timing, co-consumption of other foods and any food-drug interactions). Importantly, there are numerous vitamins and minerals of key importance to athletes, each having specific relevance to certain situations (e.g. iron and B vitamins are significant contributors to haematological adaptation, calcium and vitamin D are important to bone health and folate is important in the female athlete); therefore, the appropriate supplement for a given situation should be carefully considered and consumed with the goal to augment an athlete's diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Peeling
- School of Human Sciences (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia.
- Western Australian Institute of Sport, Mt Claremont, WA, 6010, Australia.
| | - Marc Sim
- Nutrition and Health Innovation Research Institute, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, 6067, Australia
- Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Alannah K A McKay
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
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Lodge MT, Ward-Ritacco CL, Melanson KJ. Considerations of Low Carbohydrate Availability (LCA) to Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) in Female Endurance Athletes: A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:4457. [PMID: 37892531 PMCID: PMC10609849 DOI: 10.3390/nu15204457] [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] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this narrative review is to identify health and performance consequences associated with LCA in female endurance athletes. The intake of carbohydrates (CHO) before, during, and after exercise has been demonstrated to support sport performance, especially endurance activities which rely extensively on CHO as a fuel source. However, low energy availability (LEA) and low carbohydrate availability (LCA) are common in female athletes. LEA occurs when energy intake is insufficient compared to exercise energy expenditure, and LEA-related conditions (e.g., Female Athlete Triad (Triad) and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S)) are associated with a myriad of health and performance consequences. The RED-S model highlights 10 health consequences and 10 performance consequences related to LEA. The independent effect of LCA on health and performance has been under-researched, despite current CHO intake being commonly insufficient in athletes. It is proposed that LCA may not only contribute to LEA but also have independent health and performance consequences in athletes. Furthermore, this review highlights current recommendations for CHO intake, as well as recent data on LCA prevalence and menstrual cycle considerations. A literature review was conducted on PubMed, Science Direct, and ResearchGate using relevant search terms (i.e., "low carbohydrate/energy availability", "female distance runners"). Twenty-one articles were identified and twelve met the inclusion criteria. The total number of articles included in this review is 12, with 7 studies illustrating that LCA was associated with direct negative health and/or performance implications for endurance-based athletes. Several studies included assessed male athletes only, and no studies included a female-only study design. Overall, the cumulative data show that female athletes remain underrepresented in sports science research and that current CHO intake recommendations and strategies may fail to consider female-specific adaptations and hormone responses, such as monthly fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone throughout the menstrual cycle. Current CHO guidelines for female athletes and exercising women need to be audited and explored further in the literature to support female athlete health and performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa T. Lodge
- Department of Kinesiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA;
| | - Christie L. Ward-Ritacco
- Department of Kinesiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA;
| | - Kathleen J. Melanson
- Department of Nutrition, College of Health Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA;
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8
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Fensham NC, Govus AD, Peeling P, Burke LM, McKay AKA. Factors Influencing the Hepcidin Response to Exercise: An Individual Participant Data Meta-analysis. Sports Med 2023; 53:1931-1949. [PMID: 37347443 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01874-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepcidin, the master iron regulatory hormone, has been shown to peak 3-6 h postexercise, and is likely a major contributor to the prevalence of iron deficiency in athletes. Although multiple studies have investigated the hepcidin response to exercise, small sample sizes preclude the generalizability of current research findings. OBJECTIVE The aim of this individual participant data meta-analysis was to identify key factors influencing the hepcidin-exercise response. METHODS Following a systematic review of the literature, a one-stage meta-analysis with mixed-effects linear regression, using a stepwise approach to select the best-fit model, was employed. RESULTS We show that exercise is associated with a 1.5-2.5-fold increase in hepcidin concentrations, with pre-exercise hepcidin concentration accounting for ~ 44% of the variance in 3 h postexercise hepcidin concentration. Although collectively accounting for only a further ~ 3% of the variance, absolute 3 h postexercise hepcidin concentrations appear higher in males with lower cardiorespiratory fitness and higher pre-exercise ferritin levels. On the other hand, a greater magnitude of change between the pre- and 3 h postexercise hepcidin concentration was largely attributable to exercise duration (~ 44% variance) with a much smaller contribution from VO2max, pre-exercise ferritin, sex, and postexercise interleukin-6 (~ 6% combined). Although females tended to have a lower absolute 3 h postexercise hepcidin concentration [1.4 nmol·L-1, (95% CI [- 2.6, - 0.3]), p = 0.02] and 30% less change (95% CI [-54.4, - 5.1]), p = 0.02) than males, with different explanatory variables being significant between sexes, sample size discrepancies and individual study design biases preclude definitive conclusions. CONCLUSION Our analysis reveals the complex interplay of characteristics of both athlete and exercise session in the hepcidin response to exercise and highlights the need for further investigation into unaccounted-for mediating factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita C Fensham
- Mary McKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Andrew D Govus
- Discipline of Sport and Exercise Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Peeling
- University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- Western Australia Institute of Sport, Mt Claremont, WA, Australia
| | - Louise M Burke
- Mary McKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Alannah K A McKay
- Mary McKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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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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10
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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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11
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Torstveit MK, Ackerman KE, Constantini N, Holtzman B, Koehler K, Mountjoy ML, Sundgot-Borgen J, Melin A. Primary, secondary and tertiary prevention of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs): a narrative review by a subgroup of the IOC consensus on REDs. Br J Sports Med 2023; 57:1119-1126. [PMID: 37752004 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-106932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) is common among female and male athletes representing various sports at different performance levels, and the underlying cause is problematic low energy availability (LEA). It is essential to prevent problematic LEA to decrease the risk of serious health and performance consequences. This narrative review addresses REDs primary, secondary and tertiary prevention strategies and recommends best practice prevention guidelines targeting the athlete health and performance team, athlete entourage (eg, coaches, parents, managers) and sport organisations. Primary prevention of REDs seeks to minimise exposure to and reduce behaviours associated with problematic LEA. Some of the important strategies are educational initiatives and de-emphasising body weight and leanness, particularly in young and subelite athletes. Secondary prevention encourages the early identification and management of REDs signs or symptoms to facilitate early treatment to prevent development of more serious REDs outcomes. Recommended strategies for identifying athletes at risk are self-reported screening instruments, individual health interviews and/or objective assessment of REDs markers. Tertiary prevention (clinical treatment) seeks to limit short-term and long-term severe health consequences of REDs. The cornerstone of tertiary prevention is identifying the source of and treating problematic LEA. Best practice guidelines to prevent REDs and related consequences include a multipronged approach targeting the athlete health and performance team, the athlete entourage and sport organisations, who all need to ensure a supportive and safe sporting environment, have sufficient REDs knowledge and remain observant for the early signs and symptoms of REDs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathryn E Ackerman
- Wu Tsai Female Athlete Program, Division of Sports Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Naama Constantini
- Sport Medicine, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Bryan Holtzman
- Wu Tsai Female Athlete Program, Division of Sports Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Karsten Koehler
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, München, Germany
| | - Margo L Mountjoy
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Anna Melin
- Department of Sport Science, Linnaeus University, Vaxjo/Kalmar, Sweden
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12
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Kaufman M, Nguyen C, Shetty M, Oppezzo M, Barrack M, Fredericson M. Popular Dietary Trends' Impact on Athletic Performance: A Critical Analysis Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:3511. [PMID: 37630702 PMCID: PMC10460072 DOI: 10.3390/nu15163511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nutrition fuels optimal performance for athletes. With increased research developments, numerous diets available, and publicity from professional athletes, a review of dietary patterns impact on athletic performance is warranted. RESULTS The Mediterranean diet is a low inflammatory diet linked to improved power and muscle endurance and body composition. Ketogenic diets are restrictive of carbohydrates and proteins. Though both show no decrements in weight loss, ketogenic diets, which is a more restrictive form of low-carbohydrate diets, can be more difficult to follow. High-protein and protein-paced versions of low-carbohydrate diets have also shown to benefit athletic performance. Plant-based diets have many variations. Vegans are at risk of micronutrient deficiencies and decreased leucine content, and therefore, decreased muscle protein synthesis. However, the literature has not shown decreases in performance compared to omnivores. Intermittent fasting has many different versions, which may not suit those with comorbidities or specific needs as well as lead to decreases in sprint speed and worsening time to exhaustion. CONCLUSIONS This paper critically evaluates the research on diets in relation to athletic performance and details some of the potential risks that should be monitored. No one diet is universally recommend for athletes; however, this article provides the information for athletes to analyze, in conjunction with medical professional counsel, their own diet and consider sustainable changes that can help achieve performance and body habitus goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Kaufman
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Chantal Nguyen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Maya Shetty
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Marily Oppezzo
- Prevention Research Center, Stanford University, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
| | - Michelle Barrack
- Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, California State University, Long Beach, CA 90840, USA
| | - Michael Fredericson
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University, Redwood City, CA 94063, USA
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13
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BURKE LOUISEM, WHITFIELD JAMIE, ROSS MEGANLR, TEE NICOLIN, SHARMA AVISHP, KING ANDYJ, HEIKURA IDAA, MORABITO AIMEE, MCKAY ALANNAHKA. Short Severe Energy Restriction with Refueling Reduces Body Mass without Altering Training-Associated Performance Improvement. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2023; 55:1487-1498. [PMID: 36940222 PMCID: PMC10348613 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000003169] [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: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated short-term (9 d) exposure to low energy availability (LEA) in elite endurance athletes during a block of intensified training on self-reported well-being, body composition, and performance. METHODS Twenty-three highly trained race walkers undertook an ~3-wk research-embedded training camp during which they undertook baseline testing and 6 d of high energy/carbohydrate (HCHO) availability (40 kcal·kg FFM -1 ·d -1 ) before being allocated to 9 d continuation of this diet ( n = 10 M, 2 F) or a significant decrease in energy availability to 15 kcal·kg FFM -1 ·d -1 (LEA: n = 10 M, 1 F). A real-world 10,000-m race walking event was undertaken before (baseline) and after (adaptation) these phases, with races being preceded by standardized carbohydrate fueling (8 g·kg body mass [BM] -1 for 24 h and 2 g·kg BM -1 prerace meal). RESULTS Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry-assessed body composition showed BM loss (2.0 kg, P < 0.001), primarily due to a 1.6-kg fat mass reduction ( P < 0.001) in LEA, with smaller losses (BM = 0.9 kg, P = 0.008; fat mass = 0.9 kg, P < 0.001) in HCHO. The 76-item Recovery-Stress Questionnaire for Athletes, undertaken at the end of each dietary phase, showed significant diet-trial effects for overall stress ( P = 0.021), overall recovery ( P = 0.024), sport-specific stress ( P = 0.003), and sport-specific recovery ( P = 0.012). However, improvements in race performance were similar: 4.5% ± 4.1% and 3.5% ± 1.8% for HCHO and LEA, respectively ( P < 0.001). The relationship between changes in performance and prerace BM was not significant ( r = -0.08 [-0.49 to 0.35], P = 0.717). CONCLUSIONS A series of strategically timed but brief phases of substantially restricted energy availability might achieve ideal race weight as part of a long-term periodization of physique by high-performance athletes, but the relationship between BM, training quality, and performance in weight-dependent endurance sports is complicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- LOUISE M. BURKE
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, AUSTRALIA
| | - JAMIE WHITFIELD
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, AUSTRALIA
| | - MEGAN L. R. ROSS
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, AUSTRALIA
| | - NICOLIN TEE
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, AUSTRALIA
| | | | - ANDY J. KING
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, AUSTRALIA
| | - IDA A. HEIKURA
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, AUSTRALIA
- Canadian Sport Institute–Pacific, Victoria, British Columbia, CANADA
- Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, CANADA
| | - AIMEE MORABITO
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, AUSTRALIA
| | - ALANNAH K. A. MCKAY
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, AUSTRALIA
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14
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Borszcz FK, Gabiatti MP, de Lucas RD, Hansen F. Ketogenic diets, exercise performance, and training adaptations. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2023; 26:364-368. [PMID: 37144460 DOI: 10.1097/mco.0000000000000940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The ketogenic diet has been proposed as a nutritional strategy in sports. This review was undertaken to provide an overview of the recent literature concerning the effects of ketogenic diet on exercise performance and training adaptations. RECENT FINDINGS Most recent literature on the ketogenic diet and exercise performance showed no beneficial effects, especially for trained individuals. During a period of intensified training, performance was clearly impaired during the ketogenic intervention, while a diet with high carbohydrates maintained physical performance. The main effect of the ketogenic diet resides in metabolic flexibility, inducing the metabolism to oxidize more fat for ATP resynthesis regardless of submaximal exercise intensities. SUMMARY The ketogenic diet is not a reasonable nutritional strategy, as it has no advantage over normal/high carbohydrate-based diets on physical performance and training adaptations even when used only in a specific training/nutritional periodization stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Klitzke Borszcz
- Physical Effort Laboratory, Sports Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Pantanal
| | - Mariana Papini Gabiatti
- Department of Nutrition, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Trindade, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Dantas de Lucas
- Physical Effort Laboratory, Sports Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Pantanal
| | - Fernanda Hansen
- Department of Nutrition, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina, University Campus, Trindade, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
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15
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Tarnowski CA, Wardle SL, O’Leary TJ, Gifford RM, Greeves JP, Wallis GA. Measurement of Energy Intake Using the Principle of Energy Balance Overcomes a Critical Limitation in the Assessment of Energy Availability. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2023; 9:16. [PMID: 36811697 PMCID: PMC9947205 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-023-00558-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Prolonged low energy availability, which is the underpinning aetiology of the Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport and the Female and Male Athlete Triad frameworks, can have unfavourable impacts on both health and performance in athletes. Energy availability is calculated as energy intake minus exercise energy expenditure, expressed relative to fat free mass. The current measurement of energy intake is recognized as a major limitation for assessing energy availability due to its reliance on self-report methods, in addition to its short-term nature. This article introduces the application of the energy balance method for the measurement of energy intake, within the context of energy availability. The energy balance method requires quantification of the change in body energy stores over time, with concurrent measurement of total energy expenditure. This provides an objective calculation of energy intake, which can then be used for the assessment of energy availability. This approach, the Energy Availability - Energy Balance (EAEB) method, increases the reliance on objective measurements, provides an indication of energy availability status over longer periods and removes athlete burden to self-report energy intake. Implementation of the EAEB method could be used to objectively identify and detect low energy availability, with implications for the diagnosis and management of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport and the Female and Male Athlete Triad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A. Tarnowski
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - Sophie L. Wardle
- Army Health and Performance Research, Army Headquarters, Andover, UK ,grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Department of Targeted Intervention, University College London, London, UK
| | - Thomas J. O’Leary
- Army Health and Performance Research, Army Headquarters, Andover, UK ,grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Department of Targeted Intervention, University College London, London, UK
| | - Robert M. Gifford
- grid.511172.10000 0004 0613 128XBritish Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK ,grid.415490.d0000 0001 2177 007XResearch and Clinical Innovation, Royal Centre of Defence Medicine, Birmingham, UK
| | - Julie P. Greeves
- Army Health and Performance Research, Army Headquarters, Andover, UK ,grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Department of Targeted Intervention, University College London, London, UK ,grid.8273.e0000 0001 1092 7967Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Gareth A. Wallis
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
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16
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Graybeal AJ, Kreutzer A, Moss K, Rack P, Augsburger G, Braun-Trocchio R, Willis JL, Shah M. Chronic and Postprandial Metabolic Responses to a Ketogenic Diet Compared to High-Carbohydrate and Habitual Diets in Trained Competitive Cyclists and Triathletes: A Randomized Crossover Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1110. [PMID: 36673864 PMCID: PMC9859046 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Extreme carbohydrate deficits during a ketogenic diet (KD) may result in metabolic adaptations reflective of low energy availability; however, the manifestation of these adaptations outside of exercise have yet to be elucidated in cyclists and triathletes. The purpose of this study is to investigate the chronic and postprandial metabolic responses to a KD compared to a high-carbohydrate diet (HCD) and habitual diet (HD) in trained competitive cyclists and triathletes. For this randomized crossover trial, six trained competitive cyclist and triathletes (F: 4, M: 2) followed an ad libitum KD and HCD for 14 d each after their HD. Fasting energy expenditure (EE), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), and fat and carbohydrate oxidation (FatOx and CarbOx, respectively) were collected during their HD and after 14 d on each randomly assigned KD and HCD. Postprandial measurements were collected on day 14 of each diet following the ingestion of a corresponding test meal. There were no significant differences in fasting EE, RER, FatOx, or CarbOx among diet conditions (all p > 0.050). Although postprandial RER and CarbOx were consistently lower following the KD meal, there were no differences in peak postprandial RER (p = 0.452), RER incremental area under the curve (iAUC; p = 0.416) postprandial FatOx (p = 0.122), peak FatOx (p = 0.381), or FatOx iAUC (p = 0.164) between the KD and HD meals. An ad libitum KD does not significantly alter chronic EE or substrate utilization compared to a HCD or HD; postprandial FatOx appears similar between a KD and HD; this is potentially due to the high metabolic flexibility of cyclists and triathletes and the metabolic adaptations made to habitual high-fat Western diets in practice. Cyclists and triathletes should consider these metabolic similarities prior to a KD given the potential health and performance impairments from severe carbohydrate restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin J. Graybeal
- School of Kinesiology & Nutrition, College of Education and Human Sciences, University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Andreas Kreutzer
- Department of Kinesiology, Harris College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA
- School of Health Promotion and Kinesiology, College of Health Sciences, Texas Woman’s University, Denton, TX 76209, USA
| | - Kamiah Moss
- Department of Kinesiology, Harris College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Baylor Institute for Rehabilitation, Dallas, TX 75246, USA
| | - Petra Rack
- Department of Kinesiology, Harris College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA
| | - Garrett Augsburger
- Department of Kinesiology, Harris College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA
| | - Robyn Braun-Trocchio
- Department of Kinesiology, Harris College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA
| | - Jada L. Willis
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Science & Engineering, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA
| | - Meena Shah
- Department of Kinesiology, Harris College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX 76129, USA
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17
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Evans E, Walhin JP, Hengist A, Betts JA, Dearlove DJ, Gonzalez JT. Ketone monoester ingestion increases postexercise serum erythropoietin concentrations in healthy men. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2023; 324:E56-E61. [PMID: 36449571 PMCID: PMC9870573 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00264.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Intravenous ketone body infusion can increase erythropoietin (EPO) concentrations, but responses to ketone monoester ingestion postexercise are currently unknown. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of ketone monoester ingestion on postexercise erythropoietin (EPO) concentrations. Nine healthy men completed two trials in a randomized, crossover design (1-wk washout). During trials, participants performed 1 h of cycling (initially alternating between 50% and 90% of maximal aerobic capacity for 2 min each interval, and then 50% and 80%, and 50% and 70% when the higher intensity was unsustainable). Participants ingested 0.8 g·kg-1 sucrose with 0.4 g·kg-1 protein immediately after exercise, and at 1, 2, and 3 h postexercise. During the control trial (CONTROL), no further nutrition was provided, whereas on the ketone monoester trial (KETONE), participants also ingested 0.29 g·kg-1 of the ketone monoester (R)-3-hydroxybutyl (R)-3-hydroxybutyrate immediately postexercise and at 1 and 2 h postexercise. Blood was sampled immediately postexercise, every 15 min in the first hour and hourly thereafter for 4 h. Serum EPO concentrations increased to a greater extent in KETONE than in CONTROL (time × condition interaction: P = 0.046). Peak serum EPO concentrations were higher with KETONE (means ± SD: 9.0 ± 2.3 IU·L-1) compared with CONTROL (7.5 ± 1.5 IU·L-1, P < 0.01). Serum β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations were also higher, and glucose concentrations lower, with KETONE versus CONTROL (both P < 0.01). In conclusion, ketone monoester ingestion increases postexercise erythropoietin concentrations, revealing a new avenue for orally ingestible ketone monoesters to potentially alter hemoglobin mass.NEW & NOTEWORTHY To our knowledge, this study was the first to assess the effects of ketone monoester ingestion on erythropoietin concentrations after exercise. We demonstrated that ingestion of a ketone monoester postexercise increased serum erythropoietin concentrations and reduced serum glucose concentrations in healthy men. These data reveal the possibility for ketone monoesters to alter hemoglobin mass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Evans
- Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Jean-Philippe Walhin
- Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron Hengist
- Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - James A Betts
- Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - David J Dearlove
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Churchill Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Javier T Gonzalez
- Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
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18
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Fensham NC, Heikura IA, McKay AKA, Tee N, Ackerman KE, Burke LM. Short-Term Carbohydrate Restriction Impairs Bone Formation at Rest and During Prolonged Exercise to a Greater Degree than Low Energy Availability. J Bone Miner Res 2022; 37:1915-1925. [PMID: 35869933 PMCID: PMC9804216 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.4658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Bone stress injuries are common in athletes, resulting in time lost from training and competition. Diets that are low in energy availability have been associated with increased circulating bone resorption and reduced bone formation markers, particularly in response to prolonged exercise. However, studies have not separated the effects of low energy availability per se from the associated reduction in carbohydrate availability. The current study aimed to compare the effects of these two restricted states directly. In a parallel group design, 28 elite racewalkers completed two 6-day phases. In the Baseline phase, all athletes adhered to a high carbohydrate/high energy availability diet (CON). During the Adaptation phase, athletes were allocated to one of three dietary groups: CON, low carbohydrate/high fat with high energy availability (LCHF), or low energy availability (LEA). At the end of each phase, a 25-km racewalk was completed, with venous blood taken fasted, pre-exercise, and 0, 1, 3 hours postexercise to measure carboxyterminal telopeptide (CTX), procollagen-1 N-terminal peptide (P1NP), and osteocalcin (carboxylated, gla-OC; undercarboxylated, glu-OC). Following Adaptation, LCHF showed decreased fasted P1NP (~26%; p < 0.0001, d = 3.6), gla-OC (~22%; p = 0.01, d = 1.8), and glu-OC (~41%; p = 0.004, d = 2.1), which were all significantly different from CON (p < 0.01), whereas LEA demonstrated significant, but smaller, reductions in fasted P1NP (~14%; p = 0.02, d = 1.7) and glu-OC (~24%; p = 0.049, d = 1.4). Both LCHF (p = 0.008, d = 1.9) and LEA (p = 0.01, d = 1.7) had significantly higher CTX pre-exercise to 3 hours post-exercise but only LCHF showed lower P1NP concentrations (p < 0.0001, d = 3.2). All markers remained unchanged from Baseline in CON. Short-term carbohydrate restriction appears to result in reduced bone formation markers at rest and during exercise with further exercise-related increases in a marker of bone resorption. Bone formation markers during exercise seem to be maintained with LEA although resorption increased. In contrast, nutritional support with adequate energy and carbohydrate appears to reduce unfavorable bone turnover responses to exercise in elite endurance athletes. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita C Fensham
- Mary McKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ida A Heikura
- Canadian Sport Institute Pacific, Victoria, Canada.,Exercise Science, Physical & Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
| | - Alannah K A McKay
- Mary McKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nicolin Tee
- Mary McKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kathryn E Ackerman
- Divisions of Sports Medicine and Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Neuroendocrine Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Louise M Burke
- Mary McKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
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19
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Dietary Iron and the Elite Dancer. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14091936. [PMID: 35565904 PMCID: PMC9105128 DOI: 10.3390/nu14091936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Dancers are an athlete population at high risk of developing iron deficiency (ID). The aesthetic nature of the discipline means dancers potentially utilise dietary restriction to meet physique goals. In combination with high training demands, this means dancers are susceptible to problems related to low energy availability (LEA), which impacts nutrient intake. In the presence of LEA, ID is common because of a reduced mineral content within the low energy diet. Left untreated, ID becomes an issue that results in fatigue, reduced aerobic work capacity, and ultimately, iron deficient anaemia (IDA). Such progression can be detrimental to a dancer’s capacity given the physically demanding nature of training, rehearsal, and performances. Previous literature has focused on the manifestation and treatment of ID primarily in the context of endurance athletes; however, a dance-specific context addressing the interplay between dance training and performance, LEA and ID is essential for practitioners working in this space. By consolidating findings from identified studies of dancers and other relevant athlete groups, this review explores causal factors of ID and potential treatment strategies for dancers to optimise absorption from an oral iron supplementation regime to adequately support health and performance.
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20
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Ishibashi A, Maeda N, Kojima C, Goto K. Iron Metabolism following Twice a Day Endurance Exercise in Female Long-Distance Runners. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14091907. [PMID: 35565873 PMCID: PMC9105615 DOI: 10.3390/nu14091907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and iron deficiency (ID) are frequently observed among endurance athletes. The iron regulatory hormone hepcidin may be involved in IDA and/or ID. Endurance athletes incorporate multiple training sessions, but the influence of repeated bouts of endurance exercise within the same day on iron metabolism remains unclear. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the influence of twice a day endurance exercise on iron metabolism, including the hepcidin level, in female long-distance runners. Thirteen female long-distance runners participated in this study. They completed the twice-a-day endurance exercise in the morning and afternoon. Blood samples were collected four times in total: at 06:00 (P0), 14:00 (P8), 20:00 (P14), and 06:00 the next day (P24). In addition to the blood variables, nutritional intake was assessed throughout the exercise day. Serum hepcidin levels were significantly elevated (compared to P0) until the following morning (P24). Moreover, dietary analysis revealed that subjects consumed a low volume of carbohydrates (<6 g/kg body mass/day). In conclusion, twice a day endurance exercise resulted in significant elevation of serum hepcidin level 24 h after completion of the exercise in female long-distance runners. Therefore, athletes with a high risk of anemia should pay attention to training frequency and nutritional intake in order to maintain optimal iron metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya Ishibashi
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 153-8902, Japan;
| | - Naho Maeda
- Graduate School of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu 525-8577, Japan;
| | - Chihiro Kojima
- Department of Sports Science, Japan Institute of Sports Science, Tokyo 115-0056, Japan;
| | - Kazushige Goto
- Graduate School of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Kusatsu 525-8577, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +81-77-599-4127
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21
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Lundy B, Torstveit MK, Stenqvist TB, Burke LM, Garthe I, Slater GJ, Ritz C, Melin AK. Screening for Low Energy Availability in Male Athletes: Attempted Validation of LEAM-Q. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14091873. [PMID: 35565840 PMCID: PMC9101736 DOI: 10.3390/nu14091873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A questionnaire-based screening tool for male athletes at risk of low energy availability (LEA) could facilitate both research and clinical practice. The present options rely on proxies for LEA such screening tools for disordered eating, exercise dependence, or those validated in female athlete populations. in which the female-specific sections are excluded. To overcome these limitations and support progress in understanding LEA in males, centres in Australia, Norway, Denmark, and Sweden collaborated to develop a screening tool (LEAM-Q) based on clinical investigations of elite and sub-elite male athletes from multiple countries and ethnicities, and a variety of endurance and weight-sensitive sports. A bank of questions was developed from previously validated questionnaires and expert opinion on various clinical markers of LEA in athletic or eating disorder populations, dizziness, thermoregulation, gastrointestinal symptoms, injury, illness, wellbeing, recovery, sleep and sex drive. The validation process covered reliability, content validity, a multivariate analysis of associations between variable responses and clinical markers, and Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve analysis of variables, with the inclusion threshold being set at 60% sensitivity. Comparison of the scores of the retained questionnaire variables between subjects classified as cases or controls based on clinical markers of LEA revealed an internal consistency and reliability of 0.71. Scores for sleep and thermoregulation were not associated with any clinical marker and were excluded from any further analysis. Of the remaining variables, dizziness, illness, fatigue, and sex drive had sufficient sensitivity to be retained in the questionnaire, but only low sex drive was able to distinguish between LEA cases and controls and was associated with perturbations in key clinical markers and questionnaire responses. In summary, in this large and international cohort, low sex drive was the most effective self-reported symptom in identifying male athletes requiring further clinical assessment for LEA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bronwen Lundy
- Rowing Australia, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia;
- Mary MacKillop Institute of Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Monica K. Torstveit
- Department of Sport Science and Physical Education, Faculty of Health and Sport Science, University of Agder, 4630 Kristiansand, Norway; (M.K.T.); (T.B.S.)
| | - Thomas B. Stenqvist
- Department of Sport Science and Physical Education, Faculty of Health and Sport Science, University of Agder, 4630 Kristiansand, Norway; (M.K.T.); (T.B.S.)
| | - Louise M. Burke
- Mary MacKillop Institute of Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Ina Garthe
- Norwegian Olympic Sports Centre, Department of Sports Nutrition, 0806 Oslo, Norway;
| | - Gary J. Slater
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD 4556, Australia;
| | - Christian Ritz
- National Institute of Public Health—SDU, 1455 Copenhagen, Denmark;
| | - Anna K. Melin
- Department of Sport Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, Linnaeus University, 351 95 Vaxjo, Sweden;
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22
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Commentaries on Viewpoint: Consider iron status when making sex comparisons in human physiology. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2022; 132:703-709. [PMID: 35274549 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00016.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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23
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Jagim AR, Fields J, Magee MK, Kerksick CM, Jones MT. Contributing Factors to Low Energy Availability in Female Athletes: A Narrative Review of Energy Availability, Training Demands, Nutrition Barriers, Body Image, and Disordered Eating. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14050986. [PMID: 35267961 PMCID: PMC8912784 DOI: 10.3390/nu14050986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Relative Energy Deficiency in sport is experiencing remarkable popularity of late, particularly among female athletes. This condition is underpinned by low energy availability, which is a byproduct of high energy expenditure, inadequate energy intake, or a combination of the two. Several contributing factors exist that may predispose an athlete to low energy availability, and therefore a holistic and comprehensive assessment may be required to identify the root causes. The focus of the current narrative review is to discuss the primary contributing factors as well as known risk factors for low energy availability among female athletes to help practitioners increase awareness on the topic and identify future areas of focus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew R. Jagim
- Sports Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, La Crosse, WI 54601, USA
- Exercise & Sport Science Department, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, La Crosse, WI 54601, USA
- Patriot Performance Laboratory, Frank Pettrone Center for Sports Performance, Intercollegiate Athletics, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA; (J.F.); (M.K.M.); (M.T.J.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-608-392-5280
| | - Jennifer Fields
- Patriot Performance Laboratory, Frank Pettrone Center for Sports Performance, Intercollegiate Athletics, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA; (J.F.); (M.K.M.); (M.T.J.)
- Exercise Science and Athletic Training, Springfield College, Springfield, MA 01109, USA
| | - Meghan K. Magee
- Patriot Performance Laboratory, Frank Pettrone Center for Sports Performance, Intercollegiate Athletics, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA; (J.F.); (M.K.M.); (M.T.J.)
- Sport, Recreation, and Tourism Management, George Mason University, Manassas, VA 22030, USA
| | - Chad M. Kerksick
- Exercise & Performance Nutrition Laboratory, Lindenwood University, St. Charles, MO 63301, USA;
| | - Margaret T. Jones
- Patriot Performance Laboratory, Frank Pettrone Center for Sports Performance, Intercollegiate Athletics, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA; (J.F.); (M.K.M.); (M.T.J.)
- Sport, Recreation, and Tourism Management, George Mason University, Manassas, VA 22030, USA
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