What are the components of the female athlete triad?

The female athlete triad is a term used to describe a syndrome that commonly affects physically active females, particularly those involved in sports that emphasize leanness or low body weight, such as gymnastics, dance, and distance running. This triad consists of three interrelated components: disordered eating, amenorrhea (the absence of menstruation), and osteoporosis.

Disordered eating refers to abnormal eating patterns that can include restrictive dieting, binge eating, or even purging behaviors, which negatively impact both physical and psychological health. Amenorrhea often occurs as a result of inadequate energy availability due to disordered eating, leading to hormonal imbalances that can stop menstruation. Lastly, osteoporosis relates to the loss of bone density, which can be a consequence of prolonged amenorrhea and inadequate nutrient intake, greatly increasing the risk of fractures and other bone-related issues.

The other options do not accurately capture all three components of the triad. While some terms may be relevant in different contexts, they do not reflect the direct and established components of the female athlete triad. By understanding this triad, health and exercise professionals can better identify at-risk individuals and implement strategies to promote a healthy balance in training, nutrition, and overall well-being.