Abstract des Autors

In recent years, many investigators have observed a decrease in haemoglobin concentration in trained athletes, as well as a high prevalence of iron deficiency among endurance runners and female athletes. A dilutional pseudo-anemia is a beneficial adaptation that enhances athletic performance, but it may lead wrongly to a diagnosis of iron deficiency. The increase in iron requirements due to intensive prolonged exercise, the increase in iron lost particularly by sweating, and an often inadequate iron supply from dietary intake, especially in female athletes, explain the appearance of an iron deficiency, which may lead to anemia. Iron is an essential constituent of haemoglobin, myoglobin and several iron-containing respiratory enyzmes; it plays a vital role in energy production. If is not certain that iron deficiency without anemia can reduce physical work capacity and lead to excess lactate production, it has been shown that even a slight decrease in haemoglobin concentration impairs physical performance by reducing maximal aerobic power. So, regular biological monitoring of these athletes, including in particular haemoglobin concentration and serum ferritin levels appears to be essential. When iron deficiency is detected, it is advisable to give an iron supplement. An adequate dietary intake with a sufficient animal protein intake plays an important preventive role. An excess of tea and coffee, which reduce intestinal absorption must be avoided and a regular supply of vitamine C stimulating absorption is recommended. Verf.-Referat