A real‐life snapshot: Evaluating exposures to low energy availability in male athletes from various sports

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.