Osteoporosis results from a loss of bone mineral density and improper bone formation, which causes your bones to become thin, porous and weak. It is one of three conditions -- along with disordered eating and amenorrhea -- that make up the syndrome called female athlete triad. If you develop this condition, it can lead to broken bones or stress fractures and significantly inhibit your ability to participate in sports.
Causes
Osteoporosis in female athletes is due to a combination of factors. Severely restricting calories to lose weight robs your body of essential nutrients, including bone-building calcium. Also, excessive exercise and dieting lowers your levels of estrogen, which also plays a role in keeping bones strong.
Symptoms
Referred to as the "silent disease," osteoporosis develops without symptoms, notes the NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases -- National Resource Center. You won't be aware that you have it until you a bump, fall or strain breaks one of your bones. However, you might also experience other symptoms associated with female athlete triad, such as weight loss, irregular or no periods, fatigue, muscle injuries and stress fractures.
Risk Factors
Women already have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis than men, but there are other risk factors as well. Getting older, having a small, thin body size, being a white or Asian woman and having a family history of osteoporosis all increase your risk, according to MayoClinic.com. If you have a thyroid problem or you take corticosteroids --- for instance, for asthma --- your risk also increases.
Prevention
Being an athlete doesn't prevent you from eating nutritious, well-balanced meals. To the contrary, proper nutrition is essential for peak performance. As an athletes you need carbohydrates and fat for fuel for your body and may also need to increase your protein intake, according to Colorado State University Extension. Your diet should also contain adequate calcium and vitamin D. If you're concerned about your weight as a female athlete, consult with your doctor or a sports nutritionist to plan an optimal diet. Work with a coach or other fitness professional to determine just how much training you need to do for your sport so you don't overdo it. Also, let your doctor know if you experience any changes in your period.
