Risk of Low Energy Availability, Disordered Eating, and Menstrual Dysfunction in Female Recreational Runners

Abstract

Introduction: Running is characterized by high physiological demands with an emphasis on body weight, which may lead to a greater risk of developing low energy availability (LEA) and/or disordered eating (DE). The prevalence of LEA among recreational runners has not been well defined, and this population may lack the ability to distinguish between nutrition resources that are evidence-based or not. Purpose: This study investigated (a) the prevalence of those at risk for LEA, menstrual dysfunction (MD), and risk of DE and (b) compared the risk of DE, training volume, and body weight dissatisfaction between female recreational runners at risk for LEA versus not at risk for LEA. Methods: Female recreational endurance runners (n = 1,923) completed an online questionnaire that included the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire to evaluate LEA risk and MD, and the Disordered Eating Screening Assessment to evaluate DE risk and body weight dissatisfaction. Results: 53.04% of participants are at risk for LEA, 42.5% are at risk for DE, and 61.7% reported MD. Conclusions: The current study suggests that recreational runners are at an increased risk for LEA and DE. Furthermore, DE, MD, training volume, and weight dissatisfaction may be associated with LEA in recreational runners. These findings highlight the need for education and preventative measures around LEA, MD, and DE among recreational female runners.