Final answer:
Premenopausal female athletes, especially those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, are at the highest risk for iron deficiency. They require more iron due to menstrual blood loss and increased demands during pregnancy and lactation. Adequate dietary iron and vitamin C can enhance iron absorption to meet their higher needs.
Step-by-step explanation:
Which Athlete is at Highest Risk for Iron Deficiency?
Among athletes, those at the highest risk for iron deficiency include premenopausal women, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers due to increased iron needs. In comparison to adult men, 20% of women of childbearing age are affected by iron-deficiency anemia. The risk of iron deficiency in athletes can be exacerbated by factors like menstruation, which is the most common cause of iron-deficiency anemia in young women due to blood loss. Adolescent girls and nursing mothers who are athletes also have higher iron requirements, putting them at greater risk. Furthermore, the hemoglobin content drops significantly during iron deficiency anemia, which can affect athletic performance.
Iron deficiency anemia is prevalent among children, adolescent girls, and nursing mothers, with a recommendation for higher daily iron intake compared to their male counterparts. Pregnant women require the most iron—27 mg daily. Athletes can ensure adequate iron levels by including rich sources of iron in their diets, such as shellfish, red meats, seeds, nuts, and fortified breakfast cereals. Vitamin C intake alongside these foods can help increase iron absorption. Thus, in terms of athletic populations, women, particularly those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or premenopausal, are at the highest risk for iron deficiency.