Dropping to extremely low body fat levels carries significant health risks for athletes
the verdict
SUPPORTED
the evidence backs this
confidence 81/100
Dropping to extremely low body fat or energy availability levels poses severe risks to athletes, contributing to conditions like RED-S, bone mineral loss, hormonal disruption, and impaired physiological function.
Evidence for · 4
The Role of Musculoskeletal Training During Return to Performance Following Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport.
2024 · cited by 7
This commentary discusses how relative energy deficiency in sport causes adverse health and performance outcomes, particularly concerning musculoskeletal health.
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More for · 3
Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S): A Systematic Overview of Mechanisms, Effects, and Clinical Implications
2025 · cited by 4
This systematic overview highlights that low energy availability negatively impacts metabolic rate, bone health, cardiovascular well-being, and hormonal profiles.
2025 Update to the Female Athlete Triad Coalition Consensus Statement Part 1: State of the Science and Introduction of a New Adolescent Model.
2026 · cited by 2
This consensus statement details how energy deficiency and metabolic compensation lead to adverse physiological outcomes in reproductive and skeletal systems.
2025 Update to the Female Athlete Triad Coalition Consensus Statement Part 2: Clinical Guidelines for Screening, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Return to Play for Adolescents and Adults.
2026 · cited by 1
These clinical guidelines review the screening, diagnosis, and treatment for energy deficiency and associated bone loss and menstrual disturbances.