Abstract
Nutrition plays a foundational role in athletic performance, recovery, and long-term health—particularly for female athletes who face unique physiological and psychosocial challenges. This study explores the intersection of nutrition, performance, and mental health, emphasizing the importance of education, prevention, and early intervention for disordered eating. Drawing from recent literature, the discussion highlights how inadequate nutrition and energy availability contribute to decreased performance, hormonal disruption, and the development of the Female Athlete Triad—disordered eating, amenorrhea, and osteoporosis. The research further examines social and environmental factors—including media influence, body image pressures, and coaching behaviors—that heighten the risk of eating disorders among female athletes. Evidence-based strategies for coaches, athletic trainers, and healthcare professionals are discussed, including early screening methods, educational initiatives, and multidisciplinary treatment approaches. By integrating proper nutritional practices and supportive team environments, sports medicine professionals can promote both optimal performance and long-term well-being for female athletes.
Presenters
Lindsay LuinstraAssistant Professor, Human Performance Studies, Wichita State University, Kansas, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
KEYWORDS
Female athlete triad, Nutrition, Disordered eating, Athletic performance, Prevention
