Iron supplementation benefits physical performance in women of reproductive age: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Pasricha SR, Low M, Thompson J, Farrell A, De-Regil LM
Published in Journal of Nutrition
Methodology
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 22 randomised controlled trials of iron supplementation and exercise performance in women of reproductive age.
Key Findings
Iron supplementation improved maximal oxygen uptake and reduced heart rate during exercise, with the largest gains in women who were anaemic or iron deficient at baseline.
Conclusions
Iron improves exercise capacity in iron-depleted women of reproductive age.
Limitations
Heterogeneous training status and iron doses; several small trials; limited data in iron-replete women.
Supplements Studied
Iron supplementation improved maximal oxygen uptake and reduced exercise heart rate, with the largest gains in iron-deficient women.
Outcomes Measured
Iron supplementation improved maximal oxygen uptake and reduced exercise heart rate in women of reproductive age.
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Academic / Micronutrient Initiative
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.