What role does Eisen-Ferritin Selbsttest play in Sport?

The iron-ferritin self-test measures stored iron (ferritin) in the blood. In sports, adequate iron status is critical for oxygen delivery to muscles and energy production. Deficiency can impair performance, cause fatigue, and increase injury risk, especially in endurance athletes. The self-test offers a convenient way to monitor ferritin levels at home, but its accuracy is often lower than clinical laboratory methods. Additionally, ferritin is an acute-phase reactant and can be elevated during inflammation, leading to misinterpretation. Any abnormal result should be confirmed by a doctor. The evidence for self-tests in sports is moderate: while iron's role in performance is well-established, specific studies validating home tests are lacking. Athletes should not rely solely on self-tests and should seek professional diagnosis if iron deficiency is suspected.