| [ Summary ] |
Iron is an essential mineral associated with several important physical functions in the body. Iron deficiency commonly occurs in athletes who undergo strenuous exercise training and can be attributed to an exercise-induced increase in hepcidin (an iron-regulating hormone). Hepcidin attenuates iron metabolism by reducing duodenal iron absorption and through the release of iron from macrophages. Moreover, an exercise-induced increase in hepcidin is stimulated by increased interleukin-6 levels, with peak levels observed approximately 3 hours following the exercise. Furthermore, dietary iron intake significantly affects hepcidin production. Insufficient energy intake, particularly inadequate carbohydrate intake, increases hepcidin levels. In contrast, a rapid increase in iron intake during endurance training may increase hepcidin levels. |