What are the components of the Female Athlete Triad?

The components of the Female Athlete Triad include disordered eating, amenorrhea, and osteoporosis, which are interrelated health issues affecting female athletes.

Disordered eating refers to unhealthy eating behaviors that can range from mild food restriction to severe anorexia or bulimia. This behavior is often driven by the pressure to maintain a certain body weight or physique for performance or aesthetic reasons in sports.

Amenorrhea, or the absence of menstruation, can occur as a consequence of inadequate nutrition and energy availability due to disordered eating. The body may stop menstruating as a way to conserve energy when it senses that there is not enough nourishment to support both normal physiological functions and athletic training.

Osteoporosis involves a reduction in bone density, making bones more susceptible to fractures. In the context of the Female Athlete Triad, this occurs due to hormonal imbalances caused by amenorrhea and insufficient dietary calcium and vitamin D intake, often a result of disordered eating patterns.

Understanding these components is crucial for recognizing and addressing the health risks female athletes may face, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet and proper care for their physical and mental well-being.