Iron deficiency (ID) affects almost 50% of the world’s population. However, in the western world, ID affects up to 16% of women in America. Because of suboptimal iron consumption and menstrual bleeding that leads to negative iron balance, premenopausal women have the highest chance of receiving ID. Physical activity also tends to have a negative effect on iron levels.
New research shows that iron supplements improve physical and cognitive performance of female soldiers. 219 women who participated in eight week basic combat training (BCT) were given either a placebo or 100 mg of ferrous sulphate. Those taking the iron supplements were found to have better times for mile runs and higher scores for cognitive performance.
This test also found that iron helped red blood cell distribution and increased levels of soluble transferring receptor.
