Sports nutrition
What is relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S)?
Doctor’s answer
RED-S develops when long-term energy intake does not adequately support training and essential body functions. It can affect menstrual function, bone health, hormones, immunity, mood, and performance. Recurrent stress fractures, unusual weight change, persistent fatigue, or menstrual disturbance warrant coordinated assessment by sports medicine, nutrition, and other relevant specialists.
Author: Dr. Jiwu Chen Medical review: Dr. Jiwu Chen
This content is for education. Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation require an individual assessment by a sports medicine specialist.
Related questions
Can sports supplements improve performance or speed recovery from injury?
Supplements such as protein or creatine may help selected people when used appropriately, but they cannot replace a balanced diet, sound training, and sleep. Products may contain inaccurate doses, contaminants, or banned substances. Competitive athletes should choose independently tested products and consult a doctor or sports dietitian first.
Can insufficient sleep increase sports injury risk and slow recovery?
Insufficient sleep can reduce reaction speed, attention, and movement control and can interfere with muscle repair, pain regulation, and recovery after training. Athletes should keep a regular schedule and allow enough sleep for their training load. Persistent insomnia, marked daytime sleepiness, or snoring with pauses in breathing warrants assessment.
Should athletes use static stretching or a dynamic warm-up before exercise?
Begin with 5 to 10 minutes of low-intensity activity, followed by a sport-specific dynamic warm-up such as high knees, lunges, leg swings, and progressive accelerations. Longer static stretches are generally better placed after training or in a separate flexibility session.