The female triad refers to a series of three illnesses that can strike women athletes who push their physical capabilities to the limits. The three illnesses that were discussed were eating disorders such as bulimia or anorexia nervosa, amenorrhea, and premature osteoporosis. Eating disorders such as bulimia or anorexia nervosa rob the body of needed nutrients in order to function normally. Amenorrhea refers to the cessation of a women s menstrual cycle. And while there are legitimate reasons that this might happen, eating disorders and hard physical activity will also attribute to this event.
Osteoporosis is the thinning of bones in the skeletal system in the body.
The bones in the body become so depleted that they cannot handle the stresses of everyday use. The message that readers of this research need to take with them is that if you are a woman, and a serious athlete, learn to exercise and train in moderation. Do not deprive your body of the necessary nutrients and do not ignore your body when it is speaking to you. If amenorrhea is affecting you then seek medical advice. Within today s society there is pressure on all athletes to be thinner, look better, and being lean is to have an edge on the competition.