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Why do endocrine profiles in elite athletes differ between sports?
Peter H Sönksen1, Richard I G Holt1, Walailuck Böhning1
11Human Development and Health Academic Unit, University of Southampton Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK.
Clinical Diabetes and Endocrinology
|February 16, 2018
Summary
Elite athletes exhibit distinct endocrine profiles, with male powerlifters showing low testosterone and tri-iodothyronine, while male track and field athletes have high oestradiol and sex hormone binding globulin. This study reveals high hyperandrogenism in females and hypoandrogenism in males.
Area of Science:
- Sports Endocrinology
- Exercise Physiology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Analyzed endocrine profiles of 689 elite athletes across 15 Olympic sports post-competition.
- Included body composition analysis (lean mass, fat mass) for a subset of athletes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate variations in endocrine profiles and body composition among elite athletes in different sports.
- To identify potential correlations between sport type and hormonal status.
Main Methods:
- Utilized bioimpedance for body composition and regression models for lean/fat mass estimation.
- Employed ANOVA and logistic regression to compare athletes across sports and identify sport-specific characteristics.
Main Results:
- Confirmed expected body composition traits (e.g., tall basketball players, short weightlifters).
- Revealed surprising hormone profiles: low testosterone/T3 in male powerlifters; high oestradiol/SHBG/prolactin in male track and field athletes.
- Identified high prevalence of hyperandrogenism in elite females and hypoandrogenism in elite males, with significant differences persisting after age adjustment.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights significant, sport-specific endocrine differences in elite athletes.
- It remains unclear if these hormonal profiles predispose athletes to specific sports or are a result of intense training.
- Genetic factors may influence both body composition and endocrine profiles, warranting further investigation.
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