Similar Relative Energy Deficiency In Sport (REDs) Variables In Men And Women NCAA Distance Runners

SIMILAR RELATIVE ENERGY DEFICIENCY IN SPORT (REDs) VARIRABLES IN MEN AND WOMEN NCAA DISTANCE RUNNERS Jessica L. Bryan, Kristie L. Rupp, William R. Lunn, FACSM Relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs) is a clinical syndrome that results from a state of low energy availability (EA) where there is not enough energy, after what is needed for exercise, to support normal bodily functions. Historically, low EA was thought to be only a problem for female athletes; however, research suggests that males are not without risk of REDs. PURPOSE: The purpose of the present study was to compare physiologic variables related to REDs between men and women NCAA Division II collegiate cross-country athletes. A secondary aim was to assess resting metabolic rate (RMR) suppression by determining RMR ratio. METHODS: Analysis included 10 (50% men) collegiate cross-country athletes, ages 18 to 24 y (M ± SD; 20 ± 2). Measured variables were energy intake (EI), exercise energy expenditure (EEE), fat free mass (FFM), EA and whole-body bone mineral density (BMD). To calculate EA, energy intake was derived from three-day food records, EEE was recorded by accelerometers, and fat free mass was assessed by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. RMR was determined using indirect calorimetry and RMR ratio was calculated using prediction equations. Independent samples t-tests were used to compare means between men and women. Effect size was calculated and reported as Cohen’s d values. Significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: Energy availability (kcal/kgFFM/day) was not significantly different between men and women (23.2 ± 10.8 vs. 28.9 ± 15.2, respectively; p = 0.256; ES = .434), with the mean EA of men and women categorized as low. Seven participants (57% men) presented with low EA. No athlete presented with a suppressed RMR ratio. Whole body BMD (g/cm2) was significantly greater in men than women (1.19 ± .08 vs. 1.04 ± .06, respectively; p = .009; ES = 2.16). Whole body BMD z-score was not significantly different between men and women (-0.8 ± .8 vs. -0.2 ± .8; p = .58; ES = .58). CONCLUSION: Male athletes are not without risk of low EA. The mean z-scores for both groups met the criteria warranting follow-up examination of other symptoms associated with REDs. A suppressed RMR may not be present until a chronic energy deficit presents.