REDs in Athletes: The Hidden Condition Affecting Performance
Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) is a common but often misunderstood condition that can significantly impact an athlete’s health and performance. REDs occurs when the body doesn’t receive enough fuel to support both daily living and training demands. Over time, this low energy availability affects hormones, bone density, metabolism, digestion, and recovery.
Many athletes brush off symptoms—fatigue, poor recovery, constant soreness—as “normal” parts of training. But persistent low energy is not normal. It’s a clinical warning sign that the body is struggling to keep up.
Common Symptoms of REDs
Athletes may experience:
Ongoing fatigue or declining performance
Frequent illness or slow recovery
Disrupted or absent menstrual cycles
Low testosterone in males
Stress fractures or recurring bone injuries
Iron deficiency or dizziness
Digestive issues such as constipation or bloating
Low mood, anxiety, or irritability
Reduced concentration or motivation
Clinical Health Impacts
Untreated REDs can lead to:
Reduced resting metabolic rate
Hormonal imbalance (oestrogen, testosterone, cortisol)
Compromised bone health and increased fracture risk
Low blood pressure or fainting episodes
Gut motility issues
Impaired immune function
Long-term impacts on growth and development in younger athletes
Who’s at Risk?
REDs can affect all athletes—male, female, young, recreational, or elite. It is especially common in endurance sports, aesthetic sports, weight-category sports, and high-volume training schedules.
Why Early Support Matters
REDs is highly treatable when identified early. A tailored nutrition plan can restore energy balance, regulate hormones, and rapidly improve performance and wellbeing.
At Health Management Dietitians, our Sports Dietitians specialise in assessing REDs and creating personalised fueling plans to help athletes train stronger and recover better.
If you’re noticing unexplained fatigue, stalled progress, or any of the signs above, it may be time for a professional review. Your body performs at its best when it’s properly fuelled—let us help you get there.
Book an appointment online today and learn how nutrition can become one of your most powerful tools for performance.
We understand that nutrition isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our Cairns, Atherton and Mareeba dietitians provide personalised, practical nutrition advice to help you reach your goals while still enjoying food.
Contact us today to discover a sustainable approach to eating that supports your health and lifestyle.