AAP News Vol. 15 No. 2 February 1999, p. 2
© 1999 American Academy of Pediatrics
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Female athletes and meatless diets

Carla Kemp

A meatless diet in young female athletes should be a red flag to physicians because it may indicate inadequate intake of protein, iron and zinc, as well as amenorrhea and serious eating disorders.

Physically active adolescents may believe red meat is fattening and, therefore, eliminate it from their diet so they can reach or maintain a low body weight. The authors point out that girls may try to legitimize their eating behavior by calling themselves vegetarians. Young athletes may not be aware they are putting themselves at risk for adverse effects on health, training and performance.