Abstract
Background and Aims
Exercise-induced iron deficiency is a common finding in endurance athletes. It has been suggested recently that hepcidin may be an important mediator in this process.
Objective
To determine hepcidin levels and markers of iron status during long-term exercise training in female runners with depleted and normal iron stores.
Methods
Fourteen runners were divided into two groups according to iron status. Blood samples were taken during a period of eight weeks at baseline, after training and after ten days’ recovery phase.
Results
Of 14 runners, 7 were iron deficient at baseline and 10 after training. Hepcidin was lower at recovery compared with baseline (p
Description
The study investigates the impact of long-term exercise on iron status and hepcidin levels in female runners.