Application of relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs) guidelines
A scoping review
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 24239678 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Paula L McGahan (Auckland University of Technology), Matthew R Carroll (Auckland University of Technology), Prue S Molyneux (Auckland University of Technology) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Volume | 8 |
| Publication date | 2026-10-19 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Frontiers in Sports and Active Living (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 2624-9367 • E-ISSN: 2624-9367 |
| Publisher | Frontiers Media SA (PUBLISHER • CH) |
| DOI | 10.3389/fspor.2026.1932921 |
| OpenAlex | W7222980203 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 63 |
Introduction Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) is a multifactorial syndrome arising from low energy availability (LEA), leading to physiological, psychological, and performance impairments. Despite established clinical guidelines, integration into research is uneven, demonstrating a research-translation delay. This scoping review aimed to map how REDs guidelines have been operationalised in research and assess the consistency of their application across studies. Methods Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Scoping Reviews, a systematic search of Medline, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and Scopus was conducted on 21 September 2025. Results Thirty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. Twenty-six used mixed Triad/RED-S/REDs terminology, and twenty-six post-2014 studies continued using Triad terms. Five studies followed the Triad framework alone, seventeen studies followed a parallel use of Triad-based models alongside the 2014 and/or later IOC REDs guidelines. LEAF-Q appeared in fifteen studies, only one CAT2. REDs awareness ranged from 10% to 92% across samples. Discussion Overall, inconsistency in REDs terminology, screening and operational use of REDs guidelines is apparent in research, highlighting the need for standardised concepts and improved temporal delays in research-translation to support contemporary REDs research and ultimately strengthening athlete health outcomes.
athlete health · CAT2 · LEAF-Q · low energy availability · relative energy deficiency in sport · terminology inconsistency · Eating Disorders and Behaviors · Lower Extremity Biomechanics and Pathologies · Sports Performance and Training
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Updated methodological guidance for the conduct of scoping reviews
Rayyan—a web and mobile app for systematic reviews
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| Highly cited | No |
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