female athletes; iron deficiency

Question 1

What is iron?

Answer 1

Iron is an active component within haemoglobin that is found in red blood cells.

Question 2

Why is iron essential for physical performance?

Answer 2

Iron is an essential part of delivering oxygen to the working muscles and organs of the body.

Question 3

Why are females more at risk of iron deficiency (anemia)?

Answer 3

• Inadequate intake of sources rich in iron (e.g. lean red meat)
• Naturally low haemoglobin levels
• Result of loss of blood within the menstrual cycle
• A high volume of endurance training

Question 4

What are the impacts of having iron deficiency?

Answer 4

• Feelings of early fatigue
• Low energy levels
  Both of which have a detrimental effect on an athlete’s ability to train and perform, particularly in aerobic sports.

Question 5

What foods should an athlete with iron deficiency intake?

Answer 5

• Lean red meat
• Tuna
• Leafy greens
• Vitamin C rich foods (e.g. citrus fruits) as it enhanced iron abosrption

Additionally, if suffering with iron deficiency with medical advice supplementation or procedures such as iron infusions can be required.