Screening for eating disorders and low energy availability in female trail runners: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

This cross-sectional study aims to screen for eating disorders and low energy availability, as well as identify associated factors among female trail runners. An online survey was used, collecting participants’ sociodemographic data, trail running habits, medical indicators, and screening questionnaires for eating disorders (BEDA-Q) and low energy availability (LEAF-Q). A total of 276 female trail runners were included in the analysis. The mean age was 36.2 (± 8.1) years and body mass index (BMI) was 22.0 (± 2.5) kg/m 2 . They reported 6.2 (± 5.0) years of trail running experience and 7.7 (± 4.3) hours of training per week. Statistical analysis was conducted to analyse the frequency of positive screening based on the sociodemographic characteristics, trail running habits, and medical indicators. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyse factors associated with a positive screening for eating disorders and low energy availability. A total of 53.6% participants had a positive BEDA-Q score (defined as a score ≥ 0.27), screening positive for eating disorders. Independent risk factors associated with a positive screening for eating disorders were BMI above 24 kg/m 2 (p = 0.001), high school education (p = 0.049), doctoral degree (p = 0.023) and a positive screening for depression (p < 0.001). Overall, 55.1% participants had a positive LEAF-Q score (defined as a score ≥ 8), indicating a risk of low energy availability. Associated factors were a decrease in libido (p = 0.043) and a positive screening for depression (p = 0.027). Trail running more than 3 years (p = 0.020) was the only independent risk factor for low energy availability. The independent protective factors for low energy availability were BMI above 24 kg/m2 (p = 0.047) and doctoral degree (p = 0.014). An association between eating disorders and low energy availability was also demonstrated. We present novel data on eating disorders and low energy availability in female trail runners. The elevated rates of these conditions highlight the importance of creating awareness, screening, and early interventions in this population.