What is REDs?
REDs stands for Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport. It describes a collection of symptoms and clinical findings caused by a persistent or repeated energy intake that is too low in relation to the body’s needs. In such situations, the body prioritizes energy for physical activity, while some basic physiological functions are downregulated and put into “energy-saving mode.”
REDs in 1-2-3
This informational video is intended for coaches and parents of athletes who train with high volume and/or high intensity.
Low Energy Availability (LEA)
Low Energy Availability refers to an imbalance between an athlete’s energy intake and energy expenditure, resulting in insufficient energy to maintain essential bodily functions—such as growth and development, recovery, and homeostasis.
REDs for Healthcare Professionals
This informational video is intended for healthcare professionals working with athletes or dancers who train at high volume and/or intensity.
Is your teenager showing these symptoms?
What should you, as a parent or coach, look out for if you're concerned that your young athlete isn’t getting enough energy?
Experts point to the following common symptoms in athletes who may be developing REDs:
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Mood swings
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More fatigue than usual
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More frequent illness or injury
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Menstrual irregularities
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Absence of morning erections
Some also report feeling sore most of the time — and that the soreness just doesn’t seem to go away. A single symptom may not be cause for concern, but if several appear together, it might be time to check things out.
REDs for dancers
This informational video is intended for educators and parents of dancers who train with high volume and/or high intensity.
REDs for fotball players
This informational video is intended for coaches and parents of players who train with high volume and/or high intensity.
Tips to parents
- Athletes are different – including siblings! Find solutions and foods that suit your child. Note! Norwegian dietary guidelines may be insufficient for adolescents who train a lot.
- More workouts = more food and rest
- Hard training can suppress the feeling of hunger, therefore, we cannot always rely on appetite alone. A general rule can be to eat approximately every 3–4 hours.
- Breakfast is important. Without breakfast, you may end up in an energy deficit, and it can be difficult to make up for this later in the day.
- It is important to have carbohydrates before and after training – as soon as possible – in ADDITION to regular meals. This intake is especially important if you have multiple training sessions in one day.
- Let the conversation at the table be about more than training, performance, and nutrition.
- Sleep is important for good quality of life and performance development.
Tips to coaches
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The whole picture matters – total load must be taken into account.
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Find practical solutions for having food and drink in the locker room after training. Make sure there is ENOUGH time to eat between school and training.
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Agree on which sessions require energy drinks and follow this up.
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Create a safe training environment – as a coach, you carry the main responsibility for ensuring that athletes feel safe and seen.
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Be attentive – notice athletes who change behavior, experience pain, or show large mood swings – what is causing these changes?
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Mastery is an important motivational factor – make room for athletes to make mistakes!
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Young athletes can be very ambitious and develop quickly – remember that this must be combined with strong social support and wise guidance! Be a patient adult.
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Maintain good dialogue with all key people around the athlete (club, school, parents)
