Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
I. ULUSLARARASI SAĞLIK, SPOR VE TURİZM KONGRESİ, Kırşehir, Türkiye, 13 - 15 Kasım 2025, ss.87-90, (Tam Metin Bildiri)
Objective: This study aims to examine current literature on Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) in female athletes and to complement it with observational insights from the field, focusing on energy availability, menstrual function, and bone health. The study seeks to highlight the impact of RED-S on female athletes and emphasize early diagnosis and prevention strategies.
Materials and Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted, including randomized controlled trials, reviews, and epidemiological studies published in the last five years. Keywords used were “RED-S,” “female athlete,” “energy availability,” “bone health,” and 88 “menstrual dysfunction.” Observational insights were derived from general trends reported by coaches and trainers across different sports disciplines, using only anonymized and nonidentifiable data.
Results: Literature findings indicate that RED-S is prevalent among female athletes, particularly in high-intensity sports, and is associated with low energy availability, menstrual irregularities, and decreased bone mineral density. Nutritional interventions and education programs have been shown to improve energy balance and reduce symptoms. Psychosocial factors, athlete awareness, and coach support significantly influence RED-S risk. Field observations revealed that young female athletes are often exposed to energy deficiency risks, and brief educational interventions improve awareness and adherence to preventive strategies.
Conclusion: RED-S poses significant health risks for female athletes beyond performance issues. Monitoring energy balance, menstrual regularity, and bone health requires a multidisciplinary approach. Both literature evidence and field observations underscore the importance of early detection and awareness programs. Coordination among athletes, coaches, and health professionals plays a critical role in mitigating RED-S risks. This study contributes to understanding RED-S in female athletes and supports the development of prevention strategies.
Keywords: RED-S, Female Athletes, Energy Availability, Menstrual Dysfunction, Bone Health