Health of Collegiate Athletes - An Investigation into Symptoms Associated with Low Energy Availability

Chronic low energy availability (LEA) describes inadequate energy intake relative to expenditure and underlies Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs), impairing physiological health and athletic performance. This study examined relationships between both anthropometry and body composition, cardiovascular function, and sleep quality in collegiate athletes with LEA-associated symptoms. A total of 109 collegiate athletes (Males = 43, females = 66) underwent anthropometric analysis (BOD POD), resting cardiovascular assessment, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire. Mann-Whitney U-tests assessed sex differences in cardiovascular function, anthropometry, and sleep quality. Spearman rank correlations (ρ) evaluated associations between anthropometric indices and cardiovascular and sleep outcomes. Males exhibited greater anthropometric measures (p < 0.01) and blood pressure (p < 0.001) than females. Global PSQI scores indicated poor sleep quality in both sexes (males: 5.9 ± 2.7; females: 5.7 ± 2.4), with no significant sex differences. In females, anthropometry was positively correlated with blood pressure (p < 0.01). In males, greater anthropometric measures were positively associated with blood pressure and resting heart rate (p < 0.05). Of the population studied, 19% of males and 29% of females presented with a clinically low %BF; 49% of males and 47% of females had bradycardia; 16% of males and 55% of females had hypotension; and 67% of males and 62% of females had poor sleep quality. Symptoms associated with LEA are prevalent in male and female collegiate athletes and suggest the need for closer monitoring to ensure athletes optimal health and performance.