What is a common consequence of low energy availability in athletes?

Low energy availability in athletes is a critical issue that manifests when the energy intake is insufficient to support the energy expenditure necessary for training, competition, and physiological functions. This condition can lead to several negative consequences, the most significant being an increased risk of injury and impaired performance.

When athletes do not consume enough calories to meet their energy needs, their bodies may enter a state of energy deficit. This can result in various physiological adaptations that undermine performance, such as reduced muscle mass, decreased bone density, and hormonal imbalances affecting metabolism and recovery. Inadequate energy availability can also impair the body’s ability to repair tissues after exercise, making athletes more susceptible to injuries.

Furthermore, athletes facing low energy availability often report fatigue, diminished strength, slow recovery, and an increased likelihood of overtraining symptoms. This cumulation of factors contributes to a higher risk of both acute injuries, such as sprains or fractures, and chronic issues, like stress fractures or tendinopathies.

In contrast, improved strength, enhanced recovery, and increased muscle mass are outcomes that typically require adequate caloric intake and proper nutrition. These benefits cannot be realized in the presence of low energy availability, making the chosen option—along with its associated risks—align perfectly with the outcomes expected from