Abstract details
| Abstract-ID: | 1941 |
| Title of the paper: | The effect of eight weeks of vigorous exercise training on iron status in young men and its association to physical performance |
| Authors: | Altman, A., Markus, I., Gepner, Y. |
| Institution: | Tel Aviv University |
| Department: | Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Sylvan Adams Sports Institute |
| Country: | Israel |
| Abstract text | INTRODUCTION: Iron deficiency (ID) is prevalent among extensively trained recreational and professional athletes. Unaddressed, ID may accelerate degradation in both physical and cognitive performance. This study aimed to determine the effect of eight weeks of high-volume exercise training on hepcidin and ferritin concentration, and its association to physical performance, cognitive functions, and agility. METHODS: Thirty healthy males (18-30y, 75.5±5.9kg) were recruited from a base training combat unit to participate in eight weeks of high-volume (30 h/week) exercise training with a monitored diet. Iron status, inflammation, and endocrine markers were measured pre- and post-intervention. In addition, anaerobic capacity (peak and mean power), muscle strength [isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), hand grip (HG), and vertical jump (VJ)], and reaction agility were measured. Changes between baseline and post-eight weeks were assessed by paired sample t test. RESULTS: Significant (p<0.001) increases were found in hepcidin (51.2 ± 41.7%) and ferritin (50.8 ± 60.6%) following eight weeks of training compared to baseline. In addition, significant (P<0.001) elevation was found in cognitive function [agility tests (-14.2 ± 9%), cognitive stressor tests (-3.7 ± 5.7%)] and muscle strength [IMTP (12.1 ± 9.1%), HG (8.8±12%), and VJ (5.6±11%)]. IL-6 increased (31±1.9%, p = 0.059) following the training and was strongly associated with hepcidin change (r=0.448, P<0.01), but not with ferritin (p=0.34). Changes in iron status were not associated with changes in exercise performance. Although no associations were found between total calories or macronutrient intake and iron status, total protein intake during the training correlated with ferritin change (r=0.376, P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Eight weeks of high-volume exercise training among young active male increase hepcidin and ferritin. Those changes were not associated with exercise performance, but with chronic inflammation. |
| Topic: | Health and Fitness |
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