Vegetarian athletes are at more risk of iron
deficient anaemia than non-vegetarian athletes who eat red meat.
In terms of quantity, red meat is a fairly average source of iron
but the quality of iron is far superior to that found in plant
sources.
The main risks groups for Iron Deficiency are
adolescent males and females, vegans, vegetarian athletes and
adult female endurance athletes. Coaches should be aware that
underlying iron deficiencies can be noticeable in athletes as they
become more lethargic and their performance reduces.
Sources of Iron
There are two types of iron: heme iron and
non-heme iron.
