Class
Article
College
College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences
Department
Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Sciences Department
Faculty Mentor
Jenna Dyckman
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
The purpose of this project is to address the prevalence of the Female Athlete Triad among female high school athletes. Studies indicate that while the risk factors for the Female Athlete Triad are widespread, awareness of the condition among athletes and coaches remains low.¹ Female athletes also experience higher levels of body dissatisfaction, disordered eating patterns, and associated mental health concerns compared to their male counterparts.² ³ The prevalence of the Female Athlete Triad is particularly concerning due to its long-term implications, including low bone density, amenorrhea, muscular injuries, stress fractures, abnormal lipid profiles, irreversible bone loss, depression, low self-esteem, and even increased mortality.⁴ Without early detection and intervention, many of these outcomes may become permanent.
Evidence suggests that most risk factors for the Female Athlete Triad and eating disorders manifest during early adolescence, underscoring the importance of prevention programs targeting individuals aged 13–16.⁵ Non-pharmacologic interventions, such as education and behavior modification, remain the first line of defense for both preventing and treating the Female Athlete Triad.⁶ This program aims to raise awareness of The Female Athlete Triad by providing education workshops focused on intuitive eating, fostering positive body image, and promoting appropriate fueling strategies to support athletic performance. Within these workshops, specific invitations are given to encourage behavior changes, which directly address risk factors and contribute to the prevention of the Female Athlete Triad in these athletes.
Location
Logan, UT
Start Date
4-9-2025 11:30 AM
End Date
4-9-2025 12:20 PM
Included in
Empowering Girls in Sports: Combatting the Female Athlete Triad
Logan, UT
The purpose of this project is to address the prevalence of the Female Athlete Triad among female high school athletes. Studies indicate that while the risk factors for the Female Athlete Triad are widespread, awareness of the condition among athletes and coaches remains low.¹ Female athletes also experience higher levels of body dissatisfaction, disordered eating patterns, and associated mental health concerns compared to their male counterparts.² ³ The prevalence of the Female Athlete Triad is particularly concerning due to its long-term implications, including low bone density, amenorrhea, muscular injuries, stress fractures, abnormal lipid profiles, irreversible bone loss, depression, low self-esteem, and even increased mortality.⁴ Without early detection and intervention, many of these outcomes may become permanent.
Evidence suggests that most risk factors for the Female Athlete Triad and eating disorders manifest during early adolescence, underscoring the importance of prevention programs targeting individuals aged 13–16.⁵ Non-pharmacologic interventions, such as education and behavior modification, remain the first line of defense for both preventing and treating the Female Athlete Triad.⁶ This program aims to raise awareness of The Female Athlete Triad by providing education workshops focused on intuitive eating, fostering positive body image, and promoting appropriate fueling strategies to support athletic performance. Within these workshops, specific invitations are given to encourage behavior changes, which directly address risk factors and contribute to the prevention of the Female Athlete Triad in these athletes.