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Poor nutrition increases injury risk for female athletes: Running on empty
Proper nutrition is essential not just for enhancing performance and recovery, but also for preventing injuries—particularly in female runners, according to new research from the University of South Australia. In a systematic review of nearly 6,000 adult distance runners, the study found that lower energy and fat intake significantly increased the risk of injuries among women. Injured female runners consumed about 450 fewer calories and 20 grams less fat daily than those who remained injury-free. Both men and women with bone stress injuries also had lower fibre intake—three grams less per day—than their uninjured peers. Interestingly, protein, carbohydrates, calcium, and alcohol consumption showed no correlation with injury risk. Sports dietitian Erin Colebatch emphasizes that underestimating energy needs can lead to fatigue, muscle loss, and stress fractures. The study calls on clinicians to guide female runners toward adequate energy and fat intake, while encouraging all runners to meet fibre needs to support endurance, health, and injury prevention.
21-04-2025