Expert insights on athlete nutrition timing: GI issues, RED-S, PCOS, and fueling strategies. Learn about tailored snack recommendations.

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Q: What recommendations do you have for athletes experiencing amenorrhea or relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S)?

A (Dr. Curtis): While not a typical GI condition, amenorrhea and RED-S require a multidisciplinary approach. Often, medication is prescribed to induce a period, but this does not resolve underlying hormone imbalances or decreased bone density. These conditions frequently arise from an athlete’s energy deficiency, such as a marathon runner not increasing fuel intake to match activity, leading the body to prioritize survival over non-essential functions like menstruation.

Q: How can athletes add more fuel to help resolve amenorrhea?

A (Poole): It’s a myth that athletes should not get their period; it is not normal. Addressing overall energy intake is crucial. In severe cases, decreasing activity while increasing fuel might be necessary. We often work with athletes who are injure