Runnyknows ... about the importance of iron in athletic performance!

Iron is essential for athletes, as the body uses it to create haemoglobin, so feeding our muscles with oxygen. However, iron deficiency in female athletes is surprisingly common. Symptoms include: fatigue, muscle fatigue, breathlessness, pale skin, increased sensitivity to cold and hair loss. To boost iron levels, eat: liver, lean red meat, dried fruit, whole grains, spinach, watercress and curly kale. Eat plenty of fruit and veg, as Vitamin C helps to absorb the iron, but avoid too much tea, coffee and alcohol, as these inhibit iron absorption.