Nutrition

Ensuring one’s body is receiving the necessary nutrition and hydration is a crucial step in preventing RED-S(4). It can be extremely easy for athletes to under-fuel when activity level is high, whether or not this under-fueling is intentional or by accident. Strategies to improve nutrition can include, but are not limited to:

• Increasing energy intake by:

  • Consuming energy-dense food

  • Eating consistently throughout the day

• Decreasing energy expenditure due to exercise, if one’s energy expenditure is too high

• Ensuring proper nutrient distribution, which may include:

  • A focus on carbohydrate intake

  • Adequate intake of bone building nutrients, such as:

    • Calcium

    • Protein

    • Magnesium

    • Phosphorus

    • Vitamin D

    • Potassium

    • Fluoride