Iron is involved in several metabolic processes: among the most important, the formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin, which is responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. A well-balanced diet proves to be essential for the correct intake of iron; however, if good habits are not enough, it may help to turn to a specific nutritional supplement.
The role of iron in our diet and the most effective solutions to overcome iron deficiency were the focus of the project that saw the collaboration between IBSA and Gazzetta Active during the month of October. Through the involvement of experts and professional athletes – interviewed by the editorial staff of Gazzetta Active, specialized in the all-round health of athletes – emphasis was place on the importance of this mineral in everyday life, especially in that of those who practice sports. A project of educational value, which aims to reach a wide audience to guide them to discover an indispensable element for our organism. Supplementation was precisely the topic of the first content of the project, which involved Dr. Michele de Grandi, Specialist in Sports Medicine. The expert explained the main signs of iron deficiency in those practicing sports – especially endurance sports – and the consequent need for supplementation when the diet cannot cope with increased requirements. Dr. De Grandi's advice then focused on the most suitable supplement formulations for athletes, which must necessarily be highly tolerable and easy to take.
Iron, nutrition and sport
The narrative was then enriched with authoritative testimony, that of Valentina Vezzali, a multiple Olympic and world fencing champion. Valentina shared with Gazzetta Active her experience as a sportswoman and as a woman struggling with iron deficiency at different times in her career. Thanks to a balanced diet, a constant monitoring by her sports doctor, and iron supplementation, the performance benefits of which she has personally experienced, the fencer was able to win memorable victories. Finally, the third and last contribution addressed the best way to take iron through diet with Dr. Martina Donegani, Biologist Nutritionist. After a brief excursus on the categories most at risk of deficiency of this mineral, the doctor deepened the topic by talking about the foods to be favored in the diet and the foods that most facilitate its absorption (for example, those rich in vitamin C). She does not hesitate, however, to recommend – after medical consultation – a targeted nutritional supplementation, relying on a specialist in choosing the most convenient formulation to use.
For more information about the project visit: https://www.gazzetta.it/IBSA/