Hemoglobin, Packed Cell Volume, Serum Iron and Iron Binding Capacity of Selected Athletes During Training

Abstract

Hematological findings obtained by screening topathletes during training in The Neterlands reveal an occurrence of iron-deficient anemia of 2% in male and 2.5% in female athletes. In addition, 3% of the athletes have mild anemia without signs of iron depletion. Moreover, iron depletion without anemia as well as latent iron deficiency without anemia was present in 3, respectively 5% of male athletes and in 5, respectively 15% of female athletes. It is suggested that shortage of iron in food cannot be responsible for the frequent occurrence of iron depletion, and that nonnutritional factors or nutritional factors other than iron, i.e. a fat rich diet, probably play a role in iron utilization of healthy people.