Runner’s Anemia: Iron Deficiency Anemia in Runners and Triathletes
Runner’s anemia: How common is it? What are the symptoms? What exactly causes iron deficiency anemia in runners? And, how can it be treated? Anemia is the most common blood disorder in the Unites States, affecting approximately 6% of the population. There are a variety of causes, the most common being low iron levels in the blood. When it comes to iron deficiency anemia in runners and triathletes, exercise-induced mechanisms associated with endurance activity causes athletes to be at increased risk of compromised iron status. Iron deficiency anemia in runners – who’s at risk? Vegetarians are at increased risk of developing anemia as their dietary intake of iron is lower than their carnivore counterparts. Female adolescents and women of childbearing age are also more likely to develop anemia...
