Can exercise reduce iron levels?

Lindsayrob

I got results of blood tests yesterday which showed I am slightly anaemic, although not worryingly so. The consultant asked me to repeat the bloods today so he can get a better idea of my iron levels. But this struck me today. When I had the first lot of bloods done I had just been for a run (and had probably not eaten since). The situation would be the same if I have the tests repeated today.
Can exercise reduce your iron levels, even temporarily? If so, I'm going to leave them for another day! Don't want to end up having loads of unnecessary tests!
L.

morganadk2_deleted

Not sure , but are you eating enough food with iron in?

Lindsayrob

Well i'm eating a lot less of all foods, so that could definitely be playing a role. I've also cut down massively on red wine. I knew that wasn't a good idea!

BerryH

Competitive athletes can get anaemic through destroying blood cells with repeated impact, but this is rare and you'd have to be doing some serious mileage.

Either way, your levels won't vary drastically on a daily basis, unless you're tested just after a heavy period. Many, many women are below target iron levels, and it never does any harm to ensure you get plenty of iron rich foods. You'll need to ensure you have adequate vitamin C to absorb it, and don't drink tea with your meal as it affects absorption.

unsuspectingfish

Survey says, sort of: http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/iron_deficiency_adults

That was only one of many articles that came up in Google, but only if you're exercising frequently (as in an athlete). Chances are there are other factors at play, here, like inadequate diet.

Lindsayrob

Competitive athletes can get anaemic through destroying blood cells with repeated impact, but this is rare and you'd have to be doing some serious mileage.

Either way, your levels won't vary drastically on a daily basis, unless you're tested just after a heavy period. Many, many women are below target iron levels, and it never does any harm to ensure you get plenty of iron rich foods. You'll need to ensure you have adequate vitamin C to absorb it, and don't drink tea with your meal as it affects absorption.

Thanks Berry - I do like to keep a few steps ahead of my hubbie but not sure that can be described as a competitive athlete! I'll revisit my food diary!

Lindsayrob

Survey says, sort of: http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/iron_deficiency_adults

That was only one of many articles that came up in Google, but only if you're exercising frequently (as in an athlete). Chances are there are other factors at play, here, like inadequate diet.

Thanks Robo - it's certainly looking like diet is the culprit. Good excuse to have steak for lunch!