From the Guidelines
Iron plays a crucial role in male health, particularly in maintaining aerobic performance and preventing iron deficiency, which can lead to lethargy and reduced performance. According to the study by 1, iron is an essential component of haemoglobin and myoglobin, and its deficiency can have negative implications for athletic performance. The study suggests that iron deficiency is common in athletes, with a prevalence of about 5%–11% in male athletes.
Iron Deficiency and Anaemia
Iron deficiency is defined as low serum ferritin (<35 μg/L) and normal blood haemoglobin values, while anaemia is considered present when blood haemoglobin levels are <125 g/L in males 1. The study recommends assessing iron status once per year in male players, and iron deficiencies can be identified through blood screening.
Prevention and Treatment
To prevent iron deficiency, a diet rich in iron, particularly red meat, is recommended, and vitamin C should be co-ingested with non-haem iron sources to enhance absorption 1. The current RDA for iron is 8 mg (in North America) or 8.7 mg (in the UK) for males. If iron deficiency is detected, a period of iron supplementation may be considered at levels above the RDA after consultation with qualified medical and dietetic practitioners.
Key Points
- Iron is essential for maintaining aerobic performance and preventing iron deficiency
- Iron deficiency is common in male athletes, with a prevalence of about 5%–11%
- Assessing iron status once per year is recommended for male players
- A diet rich in iron, particularly red meat, is recommended to prevent iron deficiency
- Vitamin C should be co-ingested with non-haem iron sources to enhance absorption
- Iron supplementation may be considered if iron deficiency is detected, after consultation with qualified medical and dietetic practitioners.
From the Research
Significance of Iron in Male Health
- Iron plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of males, particularly in the prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anemia 2, 3, 4, 5
- Iron deficiency anemia can lead to various health issues, including fatigue, weakness, and impaired cognitive function 2, 3
- Proton pump inhibitors, commonly prescribed medications, can decrease the absorption of oral iron supplementation, making it essential to consider alternative treatment options for iron-deficient patients taking these medications 2
Iron Supplementation and Male Reproductive Health
- A study on nano-decoction iron polysulfide found that it had antibacterial effects and could potentially be used to treat epididymitis, a condition that affects the male reproductive system 6
- The same study found that exposure to nano-decoction iron polysulfide did not have adverse effects on the reproductive health of male mice, suggesting its potential safety for use in males 6
Treatment Options for Iron Deficiency
- Intravenous iron therapy is an effective treatment option for iron deficiency anemia, particularly for patients with chronic kidney disease or those who are unresponsive to oral iron supplementation 3, 5
- Ferric carboxymaltose is a well-tolerated intravenous iron preparation that can replenish iron stores and correct anemia in various populations, including those with chronic heart failure, inflammatory bowel disease, and heavy uterine bleeding 5
- Oral iron supplementation, such as ferrous sulfate and iron protein succinylate, can also be effective in treating iron deficiency anemia, although they may have different tolerability profiles and efficacy compared to intravenous iron therapy 2, 4