Quick overview

As the Olympics 2024 approach, the European Federation of Associations of Dietitians (EFAD) is proud to announce the release of two vital resources for sports dietitians: infographics on Low Energy Availability (LEA) & Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) risk factors and management, and an Anti-Doping Toolkit, developed by the EFAD's ESDN Sports and Physical Activity. These resources, along with accompanying background documents, are designed to enhance the support dietitians provide to athletes, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to anti-doping regulations.

LEA & RED-S Infographic

Sports dietitians play a crucial role in guiding athletes toward optimal nutritional patterns for peak performance. Maintaining adequate energy availability (EA), measured as kilocalories per kilogram of fat-free mass (kcal/kg FFM), is essential not only for exercise performance but also for essential physiological functions and daily activities. The line between optimal and deficient nutrition can be very narrow, especially in endurance, weight class, and aesthetic sports. Our LEA & RED-S infographic provides clear guidance on managing these delicate balances to support athlete health and performance.

Anti-Doping Toolkit

In addition to nutritional guidance, dietitians must also help athletes navigate the complex landscape of doping risks associated with nutritional and ergogenic supplements. Our Anti-Doping Toolkit equips dietitians with comprehensive knowledge of doping rules, the risks of contamination in nutrition and supplements, prohibited substances, and the rights and obligations of athletes and support personnel. The toolkit is aligned with the WADA Code, ensuring that dietitians have the necessary information to prevent doping violations and maintain the integrity of their guidance.

How to Access

These resources are now available below. We encourage all sports dietitians to review and utilize these materials to better support their athletes in achieving optimal performance and maintaining compliance with anti-doping regulations.

Download the infographic.

Download the infographic.

Background Documents

To complement these infographics, we have also developed two detailed background documents. These documents provide additional information, resources, and context to help dietitians fully understand and implement the guidelines presented in the infographics.

Find more information on the ANti-doping Toolkit.

Last Modified: July 18, 2024

Find more information on LEA and RED-S.

Last Modified: July 18, 2024