Low energy availability status and screening indices in female japanese collegiate athletes: A pilot study

Abstract

Problem statement: Although the actual energy availability values have been measured in Japanese athletes, the measurement of low energy availability risk using alternative indicators that are easy to use on sports fields has not been sufficiently investigated in female Japanese athletes Purpose: In this pilot study, we aimed to clarify the characteristics and related factors of female athletes at risk of low energy availability using the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire and resting metabolism rate ratio, which are alternative methods for assessing the risk of low energy availability. Approach: Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire scores, energy availability, and resting metabolism rate were evaluated in 11 female Japanese college athletes to assess physiological symptoms of low energy availability. The resting metabolism rate ratio was calculated using the measured and estimated resting metabolism rate values. Results: Risk classification using the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire score showed that energy availability was low in the risk group with a score ≥8, and a low body fat percentage was observed in this group. Comparisons with the non-risk group allowed the identification of risk factors leading to low energy availability, such as high exercise energy expenditure. The low-resting metabolism rate ratio group showed low energy availability and high exercise energy expenditure, suggesting a relationship with risk factors. The body mass index and fat-free mass were higher in the low-resting metabolism rate ratio group than in the high-resting metabolism rate ratio group, suggesting that larger-bodied athletes may be at higher risk of low energy availability. Conclusions: The risk rate of low energy availability in our study was similar to that found in other countries, and female Japanese college athletes may commonly be at risk. In addition, body composition, high exercise energy expenditure, and carbohydrate intake per body weight may be associated with the risk of low energy availability. More studies are warranted to evaluate such risk in more participants.