Stella Lucia Volpe, PhD, RDN, ACSM-CEP, FACSM

Description:

This presentation delves into the critical role of iron in enhancing athletic performance, offering a nuanced exploration of its multifaceted impact. We will begin by dissecting the complex process of iron metabolism, illuminating how the body processes and utilizes this vital mineral. The discussion will then pivot to understanding the progression from iron deficiency to iron deficiency anemia, a condition that can significantly impede athletic capability. Emphasizing the relevance of iron in sports science, we will unpack cutting-edge research that sheds light on how iron directly influences athletic prowess and indirectly supports vital physiological functions essential for peak performance. This session is designed to equip athletes, coaches, and healthcare professionals with the knowledge to optimize iron levels, thus unlocking the full potential of athletic performance.

The audience will learn how to:

•  The mechanisms of iron metabolism, including its absorption, distribution, storage, and excretion processes in the body, are essential for appreciating its role in sports performance.
• To identify the early signs of iron deficiency and understand its progression to iron deficiency anemia. The session will cover strategies for preventing and managing iron deficiency in athletes, emphasizing the importance of timely intervention.
• The direct and indirect ways iron impacts athletic performance, including its role in oxygen transport, energy metabolism, and muscle function, based on the latest scientific research.
• How to maintain optimal iron levels through dietary choices, supplementation, and lifestyle modifications, tailored specifically for athletes and their unique nutritional needs.
• How to assess individual risk factors for iron deficiency, including gender, dietary choices, and exercise intensity, and how to develop personalized strategies for iron management in athletic populations.
• Interpret key indicators of iron status, such as hemoglobin levels, serum ferritin, and transferrin saturation, and how to use this information to make informed decisions about iron supplementation and dietary adjustments.

1 Credit Hour as Approved by Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)

1 Credit Hour as Approved by the Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers (BOC) 

Complete the Quiz with 70% pass rate and the certificate will be emailed to you.