Reading Passage: The Future of RED-S

Module 13: The Future of RED-S

The future of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) research and practice is likely to focus on several key areas.
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One area of focus is likely to be on improving the identification and diagnosis of RED-S. Current methods for identifying and diagnosing RED-S are limited by a lack of specificity and accessibility. There is interest in developing non-invasive biomarkers that could be used to assess energy availability and the risk of RED-S in athletes. One potential biomarker is the measurement of resting metabolic rate, which could provide information about energy availability and help identify individuals at risk for RED-S. Other potential biomarkers include measures of bone density, hormonal levels, and markers of inflammation or oxidative stress.
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Another area of focus is likely to be on developing and testing effective interventions for preventing and managing RED-S. This may include interventions aimed at promoting healthy eating behaviors, reducing energy expenditure, and addressing underlying psychological and emotional issues.
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A third area of focus is likely to be on increasing awareness and education about RED-S among athletes, coaches, and healthcare professionals. This may include providing information and resources to help athletes and coaches recognize the signs and symptoms of RED-S, and providing guidance on how to address the condition.
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Lastly, there is a growing interest in understanding the long-term effects of RED-S on health and performance, and how to best support athletes who have recovered from RED-S to prevent relapse and promote optimal health and performance.
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In summary, the future of RED-S research and practice is likely to focus on improving the identification and diagnosis of RED-S, developing and testing effective interventions for preventing and managing RED-S, increasing awareness and education about RED-S and understanding the long-term effects of RED-S on health and performance and how to best support athletes who have recovered from RED-S to prevent relapse and promote optimal health and performance.