runners Beware: Low Iron Could Be Sabotaging Performance
PORTLAND,OR – A surprising number of runners experience unexplained fatigue and diminished performance,and the culprit may be low iron levels,even without obvious symptoms of anemia.While serious medical conditions must first be ruled out, experts are increasingly recognizing iron deficiency as a common issue impacting endurance athletes.
iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood, and even slightly low levels can considerably impair athletic performance. runners face unique challenges in maintaining adequate iron stores. While foot-strike hemolysis – the breakdown of red blood cells from the impact of running – was once theorized as a major cause, research suggests the body efficiently recycles iron from damaged cells. A 1986 study found iron loss through sweat to be approximately 22.5 micrograms per liter, representing roughly 1/800th of the recommended daily intake.
Though, the hormone hepcidin plays a notable role. Elevated by exercise, hepcidin blocks iron absorption from the gut, peaking three hours post-workout and gradually decreasing. This suggests timing of iron intake is critical.”Take it in the morning,” advises researcher lucernoni, “or if you exercise in the afternoon, maybe wait until late evening.”
Serious cases of iron deficiency may require intervention beyond oral supplements. Some runners require iron infusions to restore healthy levels. Internal medicine specialist Kelly Scott notes, “Any cause of low iron can benefit from an infusion if oral supplementation isn’t working.”
Athletes considering infusions must be aware of anti-doping regulations. Infusions are currently banned as masking agents. Runners can proactively obtain a pre-TUE (Preliminary Therapeutic Use Exemption) – a swift process taking approximately 2-3 minutes – to ensure compliance with anti-doping rules.Potential medically serious causes of low iron, though less common in runners, include gastrointestinal bleeds, colon cancer, H. pylori infection, and celiac disease. It’s vital to consult a medical professional to rule these out before addressing potential exercise-induced iron loss.
