Effects of Short-Term Exercise on Iron Status and Haematological Parameters of Apparently Healthy Males in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background

Iron is needed for many biological processes but can be extremely harmful when intake is excessive. Exercise brings about iron deficiency as iron in the body is being utilised during the process.

Objectives

This study was aimed to determine the effect of short-term exercise on iron status and haematological parameters in male subjects.

Methods

A total of 47 apparently healthy male subjects aged 17–26 years were investigated. Pre and post-exercise blood samples were collected. Full blood count was carried out using standard laboratory procedures, while serum iron and total iron binding capacity (TIBC) were estimated spectrophotometrically.

Results

The obtained results showed non-significant changes of serum iron and total iron binding capacity (TIBC) post-exercise when compared to pre-exercise (P > 0.05). There was a non-significant decrease (P > 0.05) in the post-exercise levels of white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), haemoglobin (HB), mean cell haemoglobin (MCH), mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean platelet volume (MPV) and unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC) compared with pre-exercise. An non-significant increase (P > 0.05) was observed in the post-exercise levels of haematocrit (HCT), mean cell volume (MCV), platelet (PLT), serum iron, and total iron binding capacity (TIBC) compared with pre-exercise. The haematological parameters also showed some variations, but none of these findings were clinically significant.

Conclusion

Active erythropoiesis and thrombopoiesis are associated with exercise and there is a depletion of iron store levels immediately after exercise. We, therefore, recommend that iron supplements and an adequate diet be taken by athletes immediately after exercise to ensure a long and healthy life.