11/08/2020
A large number of all kinds of runners may suffer from iron deficiency or anemia (low red blood cells) at some point in their life, making it so important to recognise signs and symptoms!
Signs & Symptoms💡
Persistent fatigue, slow recovery, shortness of breath, hair loss, dizziness, and cravings for iron rich foods.
HOW and WHY do we lose iron ??
FEET👟
‘Foot Strike Hemolysis’ - A process where red blood cells are damaged with each foot strike. Prominent in endurance runners.
SWEAT💦
Some iron can be lost though sweat. For a runner, combined with the above, iron loss adds up.
GUT🦠
Iron loss can take place in the stomach and large intestine.
FEMALES👱🏻♀️
Again, combined with the above and iron loss during menstruation or pregnancy.
HIGH INTENSITY🤼♂️
Can increase iron demands by 1 to 2 milligrams per day.
If we want to continue doing what we love, we need to pay attention to our bodies. This can be done with the initial aid of your GP (check levels), followed by a nutritionist /naturopath and an exercise therapist (to monitor symptoms & load). 🤍G.