What is it about?
Iron deficiency is the most common micronutrient deficiency in the world, and its consequences are particularly relevant for athletes. In this randomized, placebo-controlled trial, we examined the effect of low-dose iron supplementation of rowing performance (e.g. energetic efficiency, lactate response) in female collegiate rowers.
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Why is it important?
We found that supplementation with a low dose of ferrous sulfate improved energetic efficiency and lactate response during a 4 K timed trial (on a rowing ergometer in the lab). These findings are not only important to female rowers, but to all active women.
Perspectives
Given our findings, blanket iron supplementation of all athletes / female athletes is not recommended -- athletes should be screened (using Hgb and sFer along with a measure of inflammation) and those with iron deficiency should be treated and followed-up as appropriate with an MD and/or Registered Dietitian.
Dr Diane M. DellaValle
King's College
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Iron Supplementation Improves Energetic Efficiency in Iron-Depleted Female Rowers, Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, June 2014, Wolters Kluwer Health,
DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000000208.
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