Mental Health and Symptoms of Energy Deficiency (REDs) in Young Biathletes

Plain-language summary

Participation in weight-sensitive sports has been identified as a significant risk factor for low energy availability (LEA), relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs), and eating disorders. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the symptoms of LEA, REDs, and mental health issues in young biathletes. This study investigates the prevalence of these symptoms in young, talented biathletes from one of the leading nations in the sport. By including athletes of both sexes aged 16, 17, and 18, this study aim to determine whether symptom severity is associated with age, sex, or performance level. Furthermore, this study will explore the experiences of biathletes aged 18 and older with the new best practice guidelines for body composition assessment, designed by an IOC working group on the REDs consensus update of 2023 to safeguard athletes from negative experiences. The insights gained from this study may enhance the understanding of the frequency of health symptoms, the age or performance level at which symptoms typically increase, and the specific needs of athletes to ensure their safety and well-being in the sport.

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