EXAMINATION OF ENERGY AVAILABILITY AND SLEEP QUALITY AMONG PHYSICALLY ACTIVE ROTC FEMALES

Low energy availability (LEA) from insufficient post-exercise energy can impair physiological functions like sleep quality, affecting recovery and cognitive performance essential for military readiness. Key micronutrients (magnesium, zinc, vitamin B6, iron) support sleep regulation. PURPOSE: This study investigates the relationship between EA, micronutrient intake, and sleep quality in physically active ROTC females. METHODS: A cross-sectional design in a free-living environment was used to assess EA and sleep quality among physically active female ROTC cadets (n = 16, age:18 ± 26 years, height: 152.3 ± 175.5 cm, weight: 48.90 ± 81.90 kg). Participants completed a demographic survey, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and height, weight, body composition were recorded. Exercise energy expenditure (EEE) and total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) were measured over 7 consecutive days using Polar Ignite watches. Dietary intake (DI) was self-reported via a food log. LEA was defined as <30 kcal/kg of fat-free mass (FFM) per day. Descriptive statistics summarized demographic and EA variables. Crosstabulations and chi-square tests evaluated the relationship between LEA and sleep quality. RESULTS: Female ROTC cadets displayed both LEA risk and poor sleep quality (68.8%; n = 11). Macronutrient analysis revealed 62.5% (n = 10) failed to meet protein recommendations, 93.8% (n = 15) had inadequate carbohydrate intake, 75% (n = 12) with excessive fat (>35%), and 93.8% (n = 15) saturated fat consumption (>10%). Micronutrient deficiencies revealed that 93.8% (n = 15) of cadets were lacking zinc and iron recommendations, 81.3% (n = 13) deficient in vitamin B6, and all cadets (100%, n = 16) lacking magnesium. Among those at risk for LEA, 81.8% (n = 9/11) also had poor sleep and low zinc levels; 81.8% (n = 9/11) did not meet iron and magnesium requirements; and 77.8% (n = 7/9) of cadets with both LEA and poor sleep lacked vitamin B6. CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that while LEA alone may not significantly affect sleep quality, micronutrient deficiencies are linked to poorer sleep in ROTC female cadets, underscoring the need for adequate micronutrient intake to support sleep and recovery.