Sex differences in energy balance, body composition, and metabolic and endocrine markers during prolonged arduous military training
Thomas J. O’Leary, Robert M. Gifford, Rebecca L. Knight, Jennifer L. Wright, Sally Handford, Michelle Venables, Rebecca M. Reynolds, David R. Woods, Sophie L. Wardle, Julie P. Greeves
Abstract
Energy deficits are common in military training and can result in endocrine and metabolic disturbances. This study provides first investigation of sex differences in energy balance, body composition, and endocrine and metabolic markers in response to prolonged and arduous military training. Men experienced greater energy deficits than women due to higher energy expenditure, which was not compensated for by increased energy intake. These energy deficits were not associated with decreases in fat or lean mass or metabolic or endocrine function.
Topics & Concepts
Endocrine systemEnergy balanceEndocrinologyInternal medicineEnergy expenditureLean body massBalance (ability)Basal metabolic rateMedicineFat massPhysiologyEnergy metabolismHormoneBiologyObesityBody weightPhysical therapyEcologyOccupational Health and PerformanceSports Performance and TrainingPhysical Education and Training Studies