Abstract
The overall health of athletes is a stated priority by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), but it can be difficult for athletes to safely balance their nutritional needs, training load, recovery, social interactions, expectations and other requirements. The effect of energy intake and, in particular, low energy availability (LEA) on the mental health of athletes is poorly studied. In this narrative review, we examine research that has included psychological factors and mental health variables when studying the effect of LEA, restrictive dieting/eating, and relative energy deficiency in sport (RED). , since the 2018 IOC Consensus Statement on REDs. Based on currently available data, the primary psychological indicators associated with problematic LEA are mood changes, fatigue, and psychological conflicts. The most serious mental health consequences associated with REDs are reduced well-being, elevated anxiety, depressive symptoms, and eating disorders. We propose a psychological model that helps structure how possible risk factors (e.g., body dissatisfaction, environmental demands, or increased training load) and moderating factors (e.g., gender, sport ) and/or potential mediating factors (e.g., social climate, self-esteem). are associated with the LEAs and finally the REDs. Current scientific literature highlights the importance of including mental health factors when screening for REDs and developing a clinical approach to address the psychological sequelae of REDs once diagnosed. An interdisciplinary perspective is recommended. Last but not least, the athlete’s perspective encourages clinicians not to underestimate the drive for success and denial of health consequences that athletes demonstrate when pursuing their sporting goals.
- Relative energy deficiency in sport
- Sports medicine
- Psychology, Sport
- Energy consumption
