Khaberni - Recent research has shown that intense physical exercise may be linked to iron deficiency and anemia, especially among women, and is known as "exercise-induced anemia".
According to a report published by the "Huffington Post", the prevalence of this condition among female marathon runners reaches 28%, compared with 11% in women in general.
Experts believe that the cause may be multi-factorial, including the breakdown of red blood cells due to high-impact sports such as long-distance running, and also the loss of blood through small tears in the gastrointestinal or urinary systems due to reduced blood flow during intense exercise.
In addition, the body's inflammatory response during intense exercises might affect iron absorption.
Andy Shepherd, a sports nutrition specialist at Loughborough University, points out that 75% of women were unaware that high training volume could lead to iron deficiency, especially given the nature of the female body which makes it more susceptible to anemia due to menstrual cycles.
Some of the most noticeable symptoms of exercise-induced anemia include persistent fatigue, heart palpitations, headaches, pale skin, and shortness of breath.
Shepherd added that those affected might find it difficult to fight off minor illnesses, such as colds, and that athletes with iron deficiency may find it difficult to improve their performance, as they may feel fine but their bodies do not reach the point where they can adapt and evolve.
Experts confirm that the only way to diagnose anemia due to iron deficiency is through a blood test by a general practitioner, and it is necessary to consult a nutrition specialist or a certified sports nutrition specialist if any concerns arise, according to Shepherd.
