Perspectives on the Science and Application of the Female and Male Athlete Triad

The Female and Male Athlete Triad describe a condition of three interrelated conditions: low energy availability/energy deficiency (with or without disordered eating), functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (females) or hypothalamic hypogonadism (males), and low bone mineral density (with or without bone stress injury). In this session, join a distinguished professor, associate team physician, and sports dietitian as they share findings from recent research and provide insights on the scientific basis of the Triad and the clinical application of the screening, diagnosis, treatment, and management of the condition.

Practical applications for dietitians evaluating athletes’ energy status, risk of energy deficiency and recommendations for screening tools, and related biomarkers will be reviewed. The session will also address best practice recommendations for multidisciplinary treatment teams managing the care of athletes with the Triad.

CPE Level: Level 3 (advanced knowledge/expertise)
CPEU: 1.5

Performance Indicators

• 8.3.3 Collects, analyzes, and interprets body composition fitness and exercise data to optimize physical performance.
• 9.3.1 Critically reviews and selects materials from credible sources to support the development of diet and nutrition education resources.
• 10.3.2 Determines factors impacting client/patient progress in meeting goals and adjusts nutrition care plans accordingly.

Learning Objectives

• Define the Triad and describe the relationship between energy deficiency and the endocrine changes leading to amenorrhea (females) or hypogonadism (males) and reduced bone mineral density.
• Evaluate an athlete for energy deficiency and utilize additional evidence-based resources for assessing attitudes and behaviors or physiological markers associated with energy deficiency/low energy availability.
• Implement effective dietary strategies for treating energy deficiency among female and male athletes while working together as a collaborative member of a multidisciplinary treatment team

Moderator

• Roberta Anding

Speakers

• Aurelia Nattiv
• Michelle Barrack Gardner