Let’s Talk About Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport

When an athlete is not meeting their energy needs whether intentionally or unintentionally, their body has to compensate to conserve energy. In a state of energy deficiency or where there is low energy availability, the body goes into survival mode to conserve energy. While an athlete may experience an initial increase in performance, ultimately their body cannot sustain being in a state of energy deficiency and performance declines.

In this state, every system of the body is impacted. In 2023, the IOC provided an updated statement on REDs and provided an updated model to demonstrate how each system is impacted.

Here are a few warning signs of REDs:

1. Difficulty focusing or concentrating.
2. Reporting feeling brain fog.
3. Difficulty recovering after a training session compared to teammates or peers.
4. May be more prone to injury.
5. May experience more depressed mood, and lack of energy.
6. May withdraw socially.
7. May express feeling exhausted and have difficulty with sleep.
8. May experience heightened anxiety and avoid time with family or friends.
9. May experience more rigidity around food.

Early Intervention is Key

Early intervention is key and a multi-disciplinary approach is best in supporting an athlete in meeting their energy needs given how REDs impacts an athlete's overall functioning, health, and well-being.

Working with a licensed sport psychologist, sport informed dietitian, and physician who is knowledgeable and skilled in working with athletes struggling with REDs is key.

Click here to learn more about The Bridge:

www.thebridgesportpsych.com