What should the kinesiologist do if an athlete reports unexpected weight loss with no dietary changes?

When an athlete reports unexpected weight loss without any changes to their dietary habits, it raises a concern that could indicate an underlying health issue. The primary role of a kinesiologist includes promoting health and exercise, but the situation described goes beyond typical performance or fitness-related issues.

Referring the athlete to a physician is the most appropriate action because sudden weight loss can be associated with various medical conditions, including metabolic disorders, hormonal imbalances, diseases, or psychological factors such as stress or eating disorders. A physician has the training and expertise to conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including necessary medical tests, to determine the cause of the weight loss and advise on appropriate treatment.

While increasing caloric intake or tracking intake may seem reasonable responses, they do not address the potential underlying medical concerns and could delay necessary intervention. Consulting with a registered dietitian could be beneficial if dietary issues are suspected, but the immediate and more critical step is to ensure that the athlete receives a thorough medical evaluation to identify any health issues. Therefore, a referral to a physician is the most prudent course of action in this scenario.