In 2023, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) released their updated consensus statement on relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs), a clinical condition underpinned by exposure to problematic low-energy availability. Low-energy availability results from an unintentional or intentional mismatch of energy expenditure and intake with several aetiologies, including disordered eating, which can range from dieting to pathogenic weight loss methods, potentially leading to an eating disorder. REDs negatively impacts several physiological systems and, more importantly, in many athlete`s eyes, their performance.1 However, REDs may go unaddressed due to the perceived benefit of leanness or external pressures (eg, financial) to continue to perform. The statement outlined the importance of the multidisciplinary team (MDT) in diagnosing and managing REDs. The statement focuses on athletes in tiers 2 (local-level representation), 3 (national level), 4 (international level) and 5 (Olympic or world championship finalists). There is significant variation in the level of support for these populations, with many athletes only having access to their sport-specific coach who may not have the resources to implement the recommendations of the statement. As an athlete and medical student, I am concerned that the IOC may have overestimated the proportion of athletes with access to an MDT and, thus, underprioritised the coach`s role in the identification and management of REDs.3 Sports and exercise medicine (SEM) professionals should recognise this as an area for development to reduce REDs among their athletes.
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