During a Nutrition Society conference in Ireland, Sharon Madigan, Head of Performance Nutrition at Sport Ireland Institute (SII), emphasized the need to bridge the sex gap in sports nutrition research. Although women have achieved equality in sports participation, research equality still lags behind. This is evident in studies on carbohydrate consumption, a crucial factor for performance in prolonged exercises.
Previous recommendations for carbohydrate consumption, including timing and amounts, have been predominantly based on male populations. However, Madigan stressed that sex differences in muscle fibre composition, hormonal factors, and substrate utilization at different times in the menstrual cycle can significantly impact the effectiveness of these recommendations. Furthermore, studying women at various stages of life, such as pre and post menopause, adds further complexity to the research.
To address these gaps, Madigan highlighted the importance of considering the unique requirements of female athletes. For instance, during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, impaired carbohydrate metabolism may occur, potentially leading to performance detriments. She suggested incorporating carbohydrate snacks before exercise and higher levels of carbohydrate consumption during prolonged exercise to mitigate these metabolism issues. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that recommendations for higher carbohydrate intake may not be suitable for women with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), as 70% of individuals with IBS are women.
Madigan also emphasized the need for more inclusive research, as studies on carbohydrate fueling for athletes have predominantly focused on male participants. She mentioned that only 11% of studies included female participants, while 89% exclusively focused on males. This disparity underscores the significant gaps in our understanding of carbohydrate requirements for female athletes.
In addition to carbohydrate consumption, research on ergogenic supplements, such as creatine, also predominantly features male athletes. The impact of these supplements on female athletes’ performance remains uncertain due to physiological and hormonal differences between men and women. Madigan warned that if research fails to provide adequate information, female athletes may seek advice from unreliable sources, which can jeopardize their health.
Addressing body image issues, Madigan highlighted how gender norms and societal expectations can impact female athletes’ exercise and nutrition choices. The pressure to conform to certain body standards can lead to calorie restriction and potentially compromise performance and overall health.
Furthermore, Madigan discussed the prevalence of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sports (RED-S) and its detrimental effects on athletes. Approximately 80% of referrals to SII from doctors and physiotherapists are due to RED-S. Research conducted by Dr Danielle Logue at SII indicated that about 40% of females experience RED-S. This condition can lead to recurring injuries, illness, reduced performance, and fluctuating mood. Madigan emphasized the importance of addressing RED-S through nutrition intervention to optimize athletes’ performance and well-being.
In conclusion, there are significant gaps in research regarding the unique nutritional needs of female athletes. Further studies are needed to understand the impact of sex differences, menstrual cycle status, and overall health on performance and well-being. Additionally, research should focus on areas such as gut health, bone health, sleep quality, and concussion recovery, where women may face specific challenges. By addressing these gaps, we can ensure that female athletes receive the appropriate support and optimize their performance in a holistic and evidence-based manner.
