Which athlete is likely to have above-normal bone mineral density?
A) Amenorrheic gymnast
B) Amenorrheic distance runner
C) Distance swimmer
D) Sprint swimmer

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Amenorrhea is a condition in which a woman does not have her period. This can be caused by a number of factors, including excessive exercise. Excessive exercise can lead to low levels of estrogen, which can in turn lead to decreased bone mineral density. Gymnasts are more likely to have amenorrhea than other athletes because they are required to maintain a very low body weight. Distance runners are also more likely to have amenorrhea than other athletes, but not as much as gymnasts. Swimmers are less likely to have amenorrhea than other athletes because they do not have to maintain a very low body weight.

Which Athlete Is Likely to Have Above-Normal Bone Mineral Density