Amy McGuire
Testimonial
Amy McGuire | Published using β-CTx, P1NP, T3, Testosterone, Cortisol, Leptin, Insulin ELISA, and Anti-IGF-1 Antibody
Lab Notes with Amy McGuire
Amy McGuire is a researcher from Technological University of the Shannon. She used our β-CTx, P1NP, T3, Testosterone, Cortisol, Leptin, Insulin ELISA, and Anti-IGF-1 Antibody as part of her study, "Measurement of energy availability in highly trained male endurance athletes and examination of its associations with bone health and endocrine function". Amy was kind enough to share her insights on her research with us, including the challenges faced and advice for fellow scientists in the field.
Q: Can you summarize the goal of your research?
Our research aimed to investigate the prevalence of low energy availability (LEA) in highly trained male endurance athletes and its potential impact on their hormone levels and bone health. Despite growing awareness of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-s), many athletes continue to experience inadequate energy intake, which can have serious physiological consequences. By analyzing dietary intake, hormone levels, and bone metabolism markers, we sought to highlight the risks associated with LEA and emphasize the importance of regular monitoring and nutritional education in this population.
Q: What was the biggest challenge in this project?
The COVID pandemic hit during the course of our study, which presented significant challenges. Lab access was restricted, experiments were delayed, and coordinating with participants became much more difficult. Despite these obstacles, we were able to push forward and complete the study, which made the final results even more rewarding. The Assay Genie team were excellent to deal with throughout our project!
Amy in the lab during covid!
- Amy McGuire / TUS
Q: What was the most surprising or exciting outcome of your research?
One of the most striking findings was the extent of bone resorption in these athletes. Despite being highly trained, many exhibited significant markers of bone breakdown, suggesting that prolonged low energy availability could be compromising their bone health. The fact that endurance athletes - who are often seen as the pinnacle of fitness - could be at risk of long-term skeletal issues was both surprising and concerning. It reinforces the need for better awareness, regular monitoring, and tailored nutritional strategies to help protect athlete health over time.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to another researcher working in this area?
This area of research is still evolving, so there’s a huge opportunity to make meaningful contributions. My advice would be to dive in with curiosity and persistence - there’s still so much to uncover about how energy availability impacts long-term health and performance. Combining laboratory analysis with real-world athlete monitoring can provide invaluable insights, so don’t be afraid to take a multidisciplinary approach. Every new study helps build a clearer picture, so roll up your sleeves and get stuck in!
Research Overview
Low energy availability (LEA) is a growing concern among male endurance athletes, with potential consequences for hormone balance and bone health. This study assessed energy availability, endocrine function, and bone metabolism in highly trained Irish triathletes and runners.
Findings revealed that 76.9% of athletes had LEA, which was strongly linked to low carbohydrate intake and reduced lean body mass. Athletes with LEA exhibited lower-than-normal levels of insulin, IGF-1, and leptin, alongside elevated markers of bone resorption - indicating potential long-term skeletal risks.
These results highlight the need for regular EA monitoring and improved nutritional strategies to safeguard athlete health and performance.
Additional Resources
