ABSTRACT: 

PURPOSE: Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) is a serious clinical condition which requires effective treatment for return to full health. However, there is little research in athletes with a clinical diagnosis and limited evidence on the recovery of RED-S. Therefore, this observational cross-sectional retrospective study investigated the barriers and facilitators to implementing an individualised meal plan aimed at increasing energy availability (EA) in patients clinically diagnosed with RED-S. 

 

METHODS: Female patients (n=55; age 25.62 +6.33 years) with a prior diagnosis of RED-S by an experienced medical specialist, participated in an online questionnaire capturing their experience of a consistent sports dietitian consultation, and subsequent implementation of a personalised EA plan which they received following their diagnosis. 

 

RESULTS: A 31% increase (n=4 vs n=16, P =0.002) in normal menstruation, a 22% reduction (n=39 v n=27, P =0.032) in gastrointestinal symptoms, and a 94% reduction (n=16 to n=1) in a very poor/poor appetite were reported following the consultation and plan implementation. Required energy intake (EI) was under-estimated by 93% of participants. Intake pre-exercise was implemented most frequently (69%, n=38), and least likely to elicit feelings of stress and anxiety (69%, n=38). Weight gain/shape change was the most frequently reported barrier to implementation (62%, n=34). Eating to a planned regime (35%, n=19) and following a timing of intake (33%, n=18) gave participants the most confidence. 

 

CONCLUSION: A structured education alongside the implementation of a personalised EA plan focusing on intake around exercise appears to facilitate the recovery of RED-S. This provides practitioners with an efficient treatment strategy for RED-S, and an athlete’s subsequent timely return to optimal training capacity.

DISCLOSURE: The authors have nothing to disclose.