The Claim
Overtraining Syndrome (OTS) and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) exhibit substantial symptom overlap and share hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunctions as common underlying mechanisms, with both conditions being driven by low energy availability (EA) and low carbohydrate (CHO) availability in athletes; therefore, many clinical diagnoses of OTS may represent misclassified cases of undiagnosed RED-S.
What the research says
Roughly balanced
Support and challenge are close. The picture may shift as more studies come in.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
Some athletes who are told they're just overtrained might actually be low on fuel — their bodies aren't getting enough energy or carbs — which can look like overtraining but is really a different condition called RED-S.
See the scientific wording
Overtraining Syndrome (OTS) and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) share significant symptom overlap and common hypothalamic-pituitary origins, with both conditions being influenced by low energy availability (EA) and low carbohydrate (CHO) availability in athletes, suggesting that many cases diagnosed as OTS may actually be undiagnosed RED-S.
What the research says
1 studyThe study shows that many athletes diagnosed with overtraining might actually be under-fueled, which causes similar symptoms to overtraining but comes from not eating enough to match their exercise.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.