The Female Athlete Triad
The Female Athlete Triad is a medical condition consisting of three interrelated conditions that commonly affect female athletes. These conditions include:
Disordered Eating: This refers to a range of abnormal eating habits or behaviors that can include restricting food intake, excessive dieting, calorie counting, or purging. These behaviors often stem from a fear of gaining weight or a desire to maintain a certain body weight or body composition.
Amenorrhea: This is the absence of menstrual periods. Amenorrhea can occur in female athletes due to low levels of estrogen caused by low body weight or excessive exercise.
Osteoporosis: This is a condition characterized by low bone mass, which can lead to an increased risk of fractures. Female athletes with amenorrhea and disordered eating are at a high risk of developing osteoporosis due to the lack of estrogen and poor nutrition.
The Female Athlete Triad can have serious health consequences if left untreated, including infertility, bone fractures, and an increased risk of developing eating disorders. Early detection and intervention are essential to prevent long-term health complications.
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