What role does Ferritin Eisenmangel play in Sport?

Ferritin is the main iron storage protein. Low ferritin (iron deficiency) can impair athletic performance by reducing oxygen transport (hemoglobin synthesis) and mitochondrial energy production. Endurance athletes are particularly susceptible due to increased iron losses from training, sweat, and gastrointestinal microbleeding. Iron deficiency without anemia may still cause fatigue, reduced endurance, and slower recovery. However, ferritin interpretation is nuanced: acute inflammation or infection can elevate ferritin, masking true deficiency. The provided knowledge context does not contain specific studies on ferritin and sports; therefore this answer relies on general physiological principles (mechanistic evidence). Routine ferritin screening in athletes is not universally recommended, but targeted testing is reasonable for symptomatic individuals or high-risk groups (e.g., female athletes, vegetarians). Iron supplementation should only be taken after confirmed deficiency, as excess iron can be pro-oxidative and harmful. Athletes should consult a sports medicine professional for personalized assessment.