Almost half of New Zealand women who exercise regularly could be risking their health by not eating enough to replace the energy they expend, new University of Otago research suggests.
The study, published in the most recent issue of the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, surveyed female recreational athletes.
Of the 109 participants interviewed by Department of Human Nutrition researchers, 49 (44%) were found to be at risk of a state of low energy availability (LEA) or at increased risk of becoming so.
Study lead author Dr Katherine Black said when exercise and insufficient energy intake combined, the body conserved energy through a range of hormonal adaptations, which ended up harming health.
"Physical activity, sport and exercise are undoubtedly an important part of a healthy lifestyle.
"However, when energy expenditure during exercise significantly exceeds energy intake this can cause problems, particularly for bone health and reproductive function."
Study participants were non-elite athlete women who did at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity per week, 75 minutes vigorous intensity exercise, or a combination of the two.
Researchers found for every one hour increase in exercise per week by a female exerciser there was a significant increase in the chances of being at risk of low energy availability.
The high number of recreational athletes at risk of low energy availability meant it was important to raise awareness of low energy availability and its potential serious health risks, Dr Black said.
"However, we also need to encourage New Zealand recreational exercisers to continue taking part in physical activity as the health benefits are well established.
"It is about finding the correct balance between physical activity, energy intake and well-being."