Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport - Your Role as a Coach and Keys to Prevention/Early Detection

with Ellen Davis, RD, CSSD, LD;
Registered Dietician (RD), Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD), Licensed Dietician (LD);
Davis Sports Nutrition;
Drake University Cross Country and Track & Field Nutrition Consultant;
former collegiate runner for the University of Missouri

RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport) has been a hot button issue during the last few years. This video featuring Ellen Davis (RD, CSSD, LD) will help you gain greater insight into the issue of RED-S in athletes. You'll learn to recognize signs and symptoms of RED-S and how to help your athletes get through and prevent RED-S in the future.

Defining RED-S and its Physiological Impairments

RED-S is a syndrome that impairs the physiological functioning of an athlete or person. It affects people in a number of different ways, including impairment in metabolic rate, menstrual function (in female athletes), bone health, immunity, cardiovascular health and more that all lead to health risk and decreased performance. As Davis explains, RED-S has 10 effects on an athlete's performance that can lower their ceiling and prevent personal bests.

Signs and Symptoms of RED-S

Within her presentation, Davis touches on signs and symptoms you can look for that might indicate you have an athlete dealing with RED-S. She uses "6 P's" to help you remember what to look for if you think someone is experiencing RED-S. The "P's" include:

• Period
• Poop (bowel movement)
• Persistent injury/illness
• Pleasantness (mood)
• Perceived rate of exertion
• Performance

Davis also helps walk coaches through ways to have effective conversations with their athletes on what could be a sensitive and difficult topic.

RED-S is something that all coaches should be aware of, no matter the sport they coach. This video helps bring a compassionate perspective and brings to light important considerations and insight on the issue of RED-S. Davis clearly defines it, displays what it looks like, and provides advice about communicating effectively with athletes who may be experiencing RED-S.

58 minutes. 2021.