Training for specific populations (females) (PREGNANT WOMEN NOT IN EXAM) Flashcards
When is thermoregulation impaired in females?
During luteal phase of menstrual cycle
What are key concerns for female athletes?
- Exercise and the menstrual cycle.
- Eating disorders.
- Bone mineral density.
- Exercise during pregnancy.
What is ‘athletic’ amenorrhea, and what is it due to?
Cessation of menstruation - due to modified release of hormones from hypothalamus
Incidence - 12-69% of female athletes vs 3% in general population
Is there evidence to suggest females should avoid training during menstruation?
No
Latest evidence suggests there is a trivial effect on performance
What are causes of ‘athletic’ amenorrhea?
- Amount of training (i.e. overtraining)
- ↑ psychological stress (e.g. catecholamines)
- Low energy availability (↑
energy expenditure and/or
restricted nutrient intake)
What is anorexia nervosa, and key techniques used?
Extreme steps to reduce body weight.
Techniques used:
* Starvation
* Excessive exercise
* Laxative use
What are warning signs for anorexia nervosa?
- rapid weight loss
- mood swings
- excessive exercise
- avoiding food-related activities
- preoccupation with food, calories, and weight
- wearing baggy clothing
What is dysmenorrhea?
Painful menstruation due to prostaglandins
- may limit training due to discomfort
What are the effects and treatment of anorexia nervosa?
Effects:
- excessive weight loss
- amenorrhea
- death
Treatment:
- psychological counselling
- nutritional guidance
What is bulimia?
Pattern of overeating (binging) followed by vomiting (purging)
What are the effects and treatment of bulimia?
Effects:
- Damage to teeth and oesophagus due to vomiting of stomach acids.
Treatment:
- Requires professional support
What is osteoporosis?
loss of bone mineral content
What are major causes of osteoporosis?
- Oestrogen deficiency due to amenorrhea.
- Inadequate calcium intake due to eating disorders.
While training has been shown to reduce the rate of bone loss, exercise cannot completely reverse the process.
What is the ‘Female Athlete Triad’?
Is a medical problem commonly observed in physically active young girls and women.
- Now commonly referred to as Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport
(RED-S)
- Associated with serious health consequences (amenorrhea, osteoporosis)
What are the 3 components of the female athlete triad, and what is the cause?
-Low energy availability
-Menstrual dysfunction
-Low bone mineral density
- Cause is low energy intake = leads to health problems due to lack of energy required for maintaining cellular homeostasis.