Female Athlete Underfueling: The Silent Performance Killer

Underfueling is a critical yet often unnoticed issue affecting nearly half of female athletes (professional but also recreational - yes you!), leading to hormonal imbalances, weakened bones, metabolic slowdowns, and mental health struggles. Chronic energy deficiency contributes to conditions like the Female Athlete Triad and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S), which can impact long-term athletic performance and overall well-being. A self-assessment checklist can help athletes recognize the signs of underfueling, and solutions include increasing caloric intake, prioritizing nutrient-dense foods, strategic meal timing, and seeking professional guidance. By addressing nutritional gaps, female athletes can enhance both their immediate performance and long-term health.