Recreational athletes have, considering the type, level, intensity and duration of physical activity, a higher need for energy and nutrients. Improper nutritional strategy, which can be a consequence of either intentional or unintentional decisions, could lead to the development of low energy availability (LEA) for basic life functions. This state causes the syndrome of relative energy deficiency in sports (RED-s), which is clinically reflected in a decrease in athlete’s performance and the development of various health problems. The aim of our study is to assess the connection between LEA and various dietary restrictions and too low carbohydrate intake. Carbohydrate intake, diets and energy availability of recreational endurance athletes were evaluated by analysing eating habits, use of 3-day food diary and measurements of body composition with bio-electrical impedance analysis (BIA) method. On the basis of calculated energy availability (EA), recreational athletes were divided into two groups considering the limit for LEA (30 kcal/kg fat free mass/day). By comparing the use of diets, number of daily meals and individual macronutrient intake for both groups, we were not able to establish correlation between dietary restrictions and LEA. Nevertheless, the results of the study showed the presence of dietary food regime among recreational athletes. By comparing the data for two groups, we confirmed the correlation between too low carbohydrate intake and LEA. The athletes who consumed less carbohydrates/kg body mass/day had lower EA in comparison with the athletes who consumed more carbohydrates. The results of the study indicate that appropriate carbohydrate intake is important for prevention of LEA and maintaining the athlete’s health.
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