What does "energy availability" refer to in the context of sport nutrition?

In the context of sport nutrition, "energy availability" refers specifically to the balance of energy intake to energy expenditure. This concept is crucial for athletes and active individuals because it encompasses not only the calories consumed through food and drink but also how much energy is expended during exercise and everyday activities.

Maintaining an appropriate level of energy availability is essential for optimal performance, recovery, and overall health. A positive energy balance, where intake exceeds expenditure, supports training adaptations and ensures that the body has sufficient energy for physiological processes. Conversely, a negative energy balance, where expenditure surpasses intake, can lead to a state of low energy availability, which might negatively impact metabolic function, hormone levels, and even bone health if prolonged.

Understanding energy availability allows athletes to strategically manage their nutrition and training, ensuring that they are consuming enough calories to match their energy outputs for both performance and overall well-being.