Relative energy deficiency (REDs) in sport has recently been hugely under the spotlight and considered a hot issue since many athletes are suffering from low energy availability and its health-related dangerous consequences. It may not be obvious as like a sport-related concussion, but research shows it is a hidden danger to an athlete health and also reported to be hugely underestimated when only two out of 27 international sports federations offered REDs-specific programs to their athletes. So, we all know there is still much work to be done from accurate measurement methods and safe manipulation of body composition to increasing awareness of the prevention and treatment programs.
I am very pleased to interview Prof Margo Mountjoy, a canadian-born pioneer and lead researcher in the field, former elite synchronized swimmer, university professor based in McMaster university, author of many REDs-focused original research publications introduced new definitions to REDs through updating IOC consensus statements, and a member of medical or advisory scientific board in IOC, ASOIF, FIFA, FINA, WADA and World Rugby Anti-doping. So, we tried to cover the most important aspects of implementing preventive or compensatory strategies for REDs while addressing the knowledge gaps in research.
