Magnesium Supplementation Diminishes Peripheral Blood Lymphocyte DNA Oxidative Damage in Athletes and Sedentary Young Man

Low magnesium in conjunction with high homocysteine increases DNA damage in healthy middle aged Australians

PURPOSE

Magnesium is one of the most common elements in the human body and plays an important role as a cofactor of enzymes required for DNA replication and repair and many other biochemical mechanisms including sensing and regulating one-carbon metabolism deficiencies. Low intake of magnesium can increase the risk of many diseases, in particular, chronic degenerative disorders. However, its role in prevention of DNA damage has not been studied fully in humans so far. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that magnesium deficiency either on its own or in conjunction with high homocysteine (Hcy) induces DNA damage in vivo in humans.

METHODS

The present study was carried out in 172 healthy middle aged subjects from South Australia. Blood levels of magnesium, Hcy, folate and vitamin B12 were measured. Cytokinesis-Block Micronucleus cytome assay was performed to measure three DNA damage biomarkers: micronuclei (MN), nucleoplasmic bridges (NPBs) and nuclear buds (NBuds) in peripheral blood lymphocytes.

RESULTS

Data showed that magnesium and Hcy are significantly inversely correlated with each other (r = - 0.299, p < 0.0001). Furthermore, magnesium is positively correlated both with folate (p = 0.002) and vitamin B12 (p = 0.007). Magnesium is also significantly inversely correlated with MN (p < 0.0001) and NPB (p < 0.0001). Individuals with low magnesium and high Hcy exhibited significantly higher frequency of MN and NPBs compared to those with high magnesium and low Hcy (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, there was an interactive effect between these two factors as well in inducing MN (p = 0.01) and NPB (p = 0.048).

CONCLUSIONS

The results obtained in the present study indicate for the first time that low in vivo levels of magnesium either on its own or in the presence of high Hcy increases DNA damage as evident by higher frequencies of MN and NPBs.

Exogeneous metal ions as therapeutic agents in cardiovascular disease and their delivery strategies

Metal ions participate in many metabolic processes in the human body, and their homeostasis is crucial for life. In cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the equilibriums of metal ions are frequently interrupted, which are related to a variety of disturbances of physiological processes leading to abnormal cardiac functions. Exogenous supplement of metal ions has the potential to work as therapeutic strategies for the treatment of CVDs. Compared with other therapeutic drugs, metal ions possess broad availability, good stability and safety and diverse drug delivery strategies. The delivery strategies of metal ions are important to exert their therapeutic effects and reduce the potential toxic side effects for cardiovascular applications, which are also receiving increasing attention. Controllable local delivery strategies for metal ions based on various biomaterials are constantly being designed. In this review, we comprehensively summarized the positive roles of metal ions in the treatment of CVDs from three aspects: protecting cells from oxidative stress, inducing angiogenesis, and adjusting the functions of ion channels. In addition, we introduced the transferability of metal ions in vascular reconstruction and cardiac tissue repair, as well as the currently available engineered strategies for the precise delivery of metal ions, such as integrated with nanoparticles, hydrogels and scaffolds.

Use of the Single Cell Gel Electrophoresis Assay for the Detection of DNA-protective Dietary Factors: Results of Human Intervention Studies

The single cell gel electrophoresis technique is based on the measurement of DNA migration in an electric field and enables to investigate via determination of DNA-damage the impact of foods and their constituents on the genetic stability. DNA-damage leads to adverse effects including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders and infertility. In the last 25 years approximately 90 human intervention trials have been published in which DNA-damage, formation of oxidized bases, alterations of the sensitivity towards reactive oxygen species and chemicals and of repair functions were investigated with this technique. In approximately 50% of the studies protective effects were observed. Pronounced protection was found with certain plant foods (spinach, kiwi fruits, onions), coffee, green tea, honey and olive oil. Also diets with increased contents of vegetables caused positive effects. Small amounts of certain phenolics (gallic acid, xanthohumol) prevented oxidative damage of DNA; with antioxidant vitamins and cholecalciferol protective effects were only detected after intake of doses that exceed the recommended daily uptake values. The evaluation of the quality of the studies showed that many have methodological shortcomings (lack of controls, no calibration of repair enzymes, inadequate control of the compliance and statistical analyses) which should be avoided in future investigations.

Assessment of the Roles of Magnesium and Zinc in Clinical Disorders

The ability and facility of magnesium (Mg2+) and zinc (Zn2+) to interact with phosphate ions confer them the characteristics of essential trace elements. Trace elements are extremely necessary for the basic nucleic acid chemistry of cells of all known living organisms. More than 300 enzymes require zinc and magnesium ions for their catalytic actions, including all the enzymes involved in the synthesis of ATP. In addition, enzymes such as isomerases, oxidoreductases, lyases, transferases, ligases and hydrolases that use other nucleotides to synthesize DNA and RNA require magnesium and zinc. These nucleotides may trigger oxidative damage or important changes against free radicals. In the same way, nucleotides may play an important role in the pathophysiology of degenerative diseases, including in some clinical disorders, where vascular risk factors, oxidative stress and inflammation work to destabilize the patients` homeostatic equilibrium. Indeed, reduced levels of zinc and magnesium may lead to inadequate amount of antioxidant enzymes, and thus, acts as an important contributing factor for the induction of oxidative stress leading to cellular or tissue dysfunction. Hence, the development of zinc or magnesium enzyme inhibitors could be a novel opportunity for the treatment of some human disorders. Therefore, the objective of the present work was to assess the clinical benefits of zinc and magnesium in human health and their effects in some clinical disorders.

Higher Intake of Fat, Vitamin E-(β+γ), Magnesium, Sodium, and Copper Increases the Susceptibility to Prostatitis-like Symptoms: Evidence from a Chinese Adult Cohort

Background: Prostatitis-like symptoms (PLS) lead to severe discomfort in males in their daily lives. Diet has been established as affecting PLS in our prior study, but the effect of nutrients, particularly for micronutrients remains largely unclear. Methods: This study enrolled 1284 participants from August 2020 to March 2021. The National Institute of Health−Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index was used to assess PLS. The diet composition was evaluated by the Chinese Food Composition Tables. Results: Participants were separated into PLS (n = 216), control (n = 432), and noninflammatory-abnormal symptoms (NIANS) (n = 608) groups. We observed higher levels of carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E-(β+γ) and subclass, zinc, magnesium, selenium, potassium, sodium, iron and manganese in the PLS group than in the control group. After adjustment for the potential confounders, the elevated risk from IQR2 to IQR4 of fat (P for trend = 0.011), vitamin E-(β+γ) (P for trend = 0.003), magnesium (P for trend = 0.004), sodium (P for trend = 0.001) and copper (P for trend < 0.001) was identified. Conclusions: This is the first study to evaluate the nutrient distribution in PLS patients and reveal that the higher intake of fat, vitamin E-(β+γ), magnesium, sodium, and copper is associated with a risk of PLS.

Combination of magnesium supplementation with treadmill exercise improves memory deficit in aged rats by enhancing hippocampal neurogenesis and plasticity: a functional and histological study

This study aimed to investigate the possible ameliorative effects of co-supplementation with Mg²⁺ and treadmill exercise on memory deficit in aged rats. Fifty male albino rats (10 young and 40 aged rats) were divided into 5 groups (10 rats/group): young, aged sedentary, aged exercised, aged Mg²⁺-supplemented, and aged exercised and Mg²⁺-supplemented. Memory was assessed using the Y-maze and novel object recognition tests. Plasma samples were collected for measurement of C-reactive protein (CRP). Subsequently, brain malondialdehyde and catalase levels were measured. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses of the hippocampi were performed. Our results showed impaired memory in aged sedentary rats, with significantly elevated plasma CRP and brain malondialdehyde levels and decreased brain catalase. The hippocampus of aged sedentary rats showed cellular degeneration, downregulation of synaptophysin (SYP) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and upregulation of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and caspase-3. Mg²⁺ supplementation and/or treadmill exercise significantly improved memory tests in aged rats, which could be explained by the upregulation of hippocampal SYP and PCNA expression and downregulation of GFAP and caspase-3 expression with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. The combined therapy had a better effect than both treatments alone, confirming the role of Mg²⁺ supplementation with physical exercise in enhancing age-related memory deficit. Novelty: Magnesium supplementation with treadmill exercise improves memory deficit in aged rats. The possible mechanisms are upregulation of the hippocampal synaptophysin and PCNA, downregulation of GFAP and caspase-3, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

The Strategy of Boosting the Immune System Under the COVID-19 Pandemic

The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection (COVID-19) has raised considerable concern on the entire planet. On March 11, 2020, COVID-19 was categorized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a pandemic infection, and by March 18, 2020, it has spread to 146 countries. The first internal defense line against numerous diseases is personalized immunity. Although it cannot be claimed that personalized nutrition will have an immediate impact on a global pandemic, as the nutritional interventions required a long time to induce beneficial outcomes on immunity development, nutritional strategies are still able to clarify and have a beneficial influence on the interplay between physiology and diet, which could make a positive contribution to the condition in the next period. As such, a specific goal for every practitioner is to evaluate different tests to perceive the status of the patient, such as markers of inflammation, insulin regulation, and nutrient status, and to detect possible imbalances or deficiencies. During the process of disease development, the supplementation and addition of different nutrients and nutraceuticals can influence not only the viral replication but also the cellular mechanisms. It is essential to understand that every patient has its individual needs. Even though many nutrients, nutraceuticals, and drugs have beneficial effects on the immune response and can prevent or ameliorate viral infections, it is essential to detect at what stage in COVID-19 progression the patient is at the moment and decide what kind of nutrition intervention is necessary. Furthermore, understanding the pathogenesis of coronavirus infection is critical to make proper recommendations.

Bioremediation effect of pomegranate peel on subchronic mercury immunotoxicity on African catfish (Clarias gariepinus)

The primary aim of the present study is to evaluate the highest concentrations of heavy metals (HMs) in Nile catfish (Clarias gariepinus, C. gariepinus) and water samples, as well as to investigate the efficiency of pomegranate peels (PPs) (supplemented either through water or diet) in enhancing fish immunity and counteracting the toxicity of high concentrations of HMs. Water and C. gariepinus samples were collected from two private fish farms in Al Sharkia Governorate. Mercury (Hg) showed the highest concentration (0.13 ppm). The adsorption capacity of PP was evaluated by testing different concentrations, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9, 1.2, and 1.5 g L^-1, wherein 1.5 g L^-1 revealed the highest Hg adsorption efficiency. The results indicated that Hg concentration was decreased with increased PP concentration until 72 h. In a trial that lasted for 60 days, 240 C. gariepinus (75.12 ± 3.12 g) were randomly divided into eight equal groups with three replicates per group. The first group (CT) served as the negative control (fish fed on a basal diet). The second group (PPW) was fed on a basal diet and supplemented with 0.3 g L^-1 of PP via water. The third (PPD1) and fourth (PPD2) groups received basal diets enriched with 1 and 2 g PP powder/kg diet. respectively. The fifth group (Hg) served as the positive control that was fed on a basal diet and exposed to 0.13 ppm of Hg. The sixth (Hg + PPW), seventh (Hg + PPD1), and eighth (Hg + PPD2) groups were exposed to 0.13 ppm of Hg and received the same type of treatment as in second, third, and fourth groups. Hg exposure significantly elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), urea, and creatinine levels, as well as oxidative stress biomarkers, including reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Pomegranate supplementation through diet elevated the levels of red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), lysozyme, and anti-protease activity. Moreover, PP supplementation through water revealed minimum urea and creatinine levels, and the highest nitric oxide level. Moreover, Hg residue level in fish muscles noticeably decreased in the PP-treated groups. These results demonstrated the efficiency of PP supplementation (either through water or diet) in enhancing fish immunity and counteracting subchronic Hg toxicity.

'Magnesium'-the master cation-as a drug-possibilities and evidences

Magnesium (Mg²⁺) is the 2nd most abundant intracellular cation, which participates in various enzymatic reactions; there by regulating vital biological functions. Magnesium (Mg²⁺) can regulate several cations, including sodium, potassium, and calcium; it consequently maintains physiological functions like impulse conduction, blood pressure, heart rhythm, and muscle contraction. But, it doesn't get much attention in account with its functions, making it a "Forgotten cation". Like other cations, maintenance of the normal physiological level of Mg²⁺ is important. Its deficiency is associated with various diseases, which point out to the importance of Mg²⁺ as a drug. The roles of Mg²⁺ such as natural calcium antagonist, glutamate NMDA receptor blocker, vasodilator, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent are responsible for its therapeutic benefits. Various salts of Mg²⁺ are currently in clinical use, but their application is limited. This review collates all the possible mechanisms behind the behavior of magnesium as a drug at different disease conditions with clinical shreds of evidence.

Micronutrients as immunomodulatory tools for COVID-19 management

COVID-19 rapidly turned to a global pandemic posing lethal threats to overwhelming health care capabilities, despite its relatively low mortality rate. The clinical respiratory symptoms include dry cough, fever, anosmia, breathing difficulties, and subsequent respiratory failure. No known cure is available for COVID-19. Apart from the anti-viral strategy, the supports of immune effectors and modulation of immunosuppressive mechanisms is the rationale immunomodulation approach in COVID-19 management. Diet and nutrition are essential for healthy immunity. However, a group of micronutrients plays a dominant role in immunomodulation. The deficiency of most nutrients increases the individual susceptibility to virus infection with a tendency for severe clinical presentation. Despite a shred of evidence, the supplementation of a single nutrient is not promising in the general population. Individuals at high-risk for specific nutrient deficiencies likely benefit from supplementation. The individual dietary and nutritional status assessments are critical for determining the comprehensive actions in COVID-19.

Micronutrients and bioactive compounds in the immunological pathways related to SARS-CoV-2 (adults and elderly)

The new coronavirus pandemic is affecting the entire world with more than 25 million confirmed cases in August 2020 according to the World Health Organization. It is known that the virus can affect several tissues and can progress to a respiratory failure in severe cases. To prevent the progression to this stage of the disease and minimize all the damage caused by coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) the immune system must be in its integrity. A healthy nutritional status are fundamental to efficient immunological protection and consequently a good response to SARS-CoV-2. Micronutrients and bioactive compounds perform functions in immune cells that are extremely essential to stop SARS-CoV-2. Their adequate consumption is part of a non-pharmacological intervention to keep the immune system functioning. This review has as main objective to inform how micronutrients and bioactive compounds could act in the essential immunological pathways could stop SARS-CoV-2, focusing on the functions that have already established in the literature and transposing to this scenario.

A heavy metal baseline score predicts outcome in acute myeloid leukemia

Despite abundant epidemiological data linking metals to leukemia and other cancers, baseline values of toxic and essential metals in patients with leukemia and the clinical impact of these metals remain unknown. Thus, we sought to quantify metal values in untreated patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and controls and determine the impact of metal values on AML patients' survival. Serum samples from patients with untreated AML and controls at Hospices Civils de Lyon were analyzed and compared for trace metals and copper isotopic abundance ratios with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Survival analysis was performed as a function of metal values, and a multi-metal score was developed for patients with AML. Serum samples were collected from 67 patients with untreated AML and 94 controls. Most patients had intermediate-risk cytogenetics (63.1%) without FLT3 internal tandem duplication mutations (75.6%) or NPM1 mutations (68.1%). Most metal values differed significantly between AML and control groups. Patients with lower magnesium and higher cadmium values had the worst survival rates, with only 36% surviving at 6 months (P = .001). The adverse prognostic effect of this combination was maintained on multivariate analysis. Based on this, we developed a novel metal score, which accounts for multiple relative abnormalities in the values of five toxic and five essential metals. Patients with a higher metal score had significantly worse survival, which was maintained on multivariate analysis (P = .03). This baseline metal scoring system was also prognostic when we applied it to a separate population of front-line AML patients.

A Review of Micronutrients and the Immune System-Working in Harmony to Reduce the Risk of Infection

Immune support by micronutrients is historically based on vitamin C deficiency and supplementation in scurvy in early times. It has since been established that the complex, integrated immune system needs multiple specific micronutrients, including vitamins A, D, C, E, B6, and B12, folate, zinc, iron, copper, and selenium, which play vital, often synergistic roles at every stage of the immune response. Adequate amounts are essential to ensure the proper function of physical barriers and immune cells; however, daily micronutrient intakes necessary to support immune function may be higher than current recommended dietary allowances. Certain populations have inadequate dietary micronutrient intakes, and situations with increased requirements (e.g., infection, stress, and pollution) further decrease stores within the body. Several micronutrients may be deficient, and even marginal deficiency may impair immunity. Although contradictory data exist, available evidence indicates that supplementation with multiple micronutrients with immune-supporting roles may modulate immune function and reduce the risk of infection. Micronutrients with the strongest evidence for immune support are vitamins C and D and zinc. Better design of human clinical studies addressing dosage and combinations of micronutrients in different populations are required to substantiate the benefits of micronutrient supplementation against infection.

The Strategy of Boosting the Immune System Under the COVID-19 Pandemic

The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection (COVID-19) has raised considerable concern on the entire planet. On March 11, 2020, COVID-19 was categorized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a pandemic infection, and by March 18, 2020, it has spread to 146 countries. The first internal defense line against numerous diseases is personalized immunity. Although it cannot be claimed that personalized nutrition will have an immediate impact on a global pandemic, as the nutritional interventions required a long time to induce beneficial outcomes on immunity development, nutritional strategies are still able to clarify and have a beneficial influence on the interplay between physiology and diet, which could make a positive contribution to the condition in the next period. As such, a specific goal for every practitioner is to evaluate different tests to perceive the status of the patient, such as markers of inflammation, insulin regulation, and nutrient status, and to detect possible imbalances or deficiencies. During the process of disease development, the supplementation and addition of different nutrients and nutraceuticals can influence not only the viral replication but also the cellular mechanisms. It is essential to understand that every patient has its individual needs. Even though many nutrients, nutraceuticals, and drugs have beneficial effects on the immune response and can prevent or ameliorate viral infections, it is essential to detect at what stage in COVID-19 progression the patient is at the moment and decide what kind of nutrition intervention is necessary. Furthermore, understanding the pathogenesis of coronavirus infection is critical to make proper recommendations.

The Effects of Magnesium and Vitamin E Co-Supplementation on Hormonal Status and Biomarkers of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Synergistic approach of magnesium and vitamin E may benefit clinical symptoms of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) through improving their metabolic profiles and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. This study was designed to determine the effects of magnesium and vitamin E co-supplementation on hormonal status and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in women with PCOS. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted among 60 women with PCOS, aged 18-40 years old. Participants were randomly divided into two groups to take 250 mg/day magnesium plus 400 mg/day vitamin E supplements or placebo (n = 30 each group) for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken at baseline and after the 12-week intervention to quantify related variables. Magnesium and vitamin E co-supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in hirsutism (β - 0.37; 95% CI, - 0.70, - 0.05; P = 0.02) and serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β - 0.67 mg/L; 95% CI, - 1.20, - 0.14; P = 0.01), and a significant increase in plasma nitric oxide (NO) (β 3.40 μmol/L; 95% CI, 1.46, 5.35; P = 0.001) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels (β 66.32 mmol/L; 95% CI, 43.80, 88.84; P < 0.001). Overall, magnesium and vitamin E co-supplementation for 12 weeks may benefit women with PCOS on hirsutism, serum hs-CRP, plasma NO, and TAC levels. Clinical trial registration number http://www.irct.ir : IRCT2017082733941N8.

The effects of magnesium-zinc-calcium-vitamin D co-supplementation on biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress and pregnancy outcomes in gestational diabetes

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is the most common medical condition in pregnant women and its complications affect both mother and fetus. The beneficial effects of vitamin D on gestational diabetes have been shown, though data on the effects of co-administration of vitamin D with other nutrients on pregnancy outcomes in gestational diabetes (GDM) are scarce. This study was aimed to determine the effects of magnesium-zinc-calcium-vitamin D co-supplementation on parameters of inflammation and oxidative stress, and pregnancy outcomes among women with GDM.

METHODS

This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 60 women with GDM not taking oral hypoglycemic agents. Patients were randomly assigned to take magnesium-zinc-calcium-vitamin D supplements (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) for 6 weeks. Fasting blood samples were collected from participants at baseline and after the 6-week intervention to measure related biomarkers.

RESULTS

Magnesium-zinc-calcium-vitamin D co-supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (- 1.2 ± 3.5 vs. + 0.8 ± 2.0 mg/L, P = 0.01) and plasma malondialdehyde concentrations (- 0.3 ± 0.3 vs. + 0.3 ± 1.1 μmol/L, P = 0.003), as well as a significant increase in total antioxidant capacity levels (+ 38.2 ± 76.5 vs. -16.3 ± 93.5 mmol/L, P = 0.01), compared to placebo. We found a decreasing trend in newborns' weight (3089.8 ± 519.9 vs. 3346.3 ± 411.1 g, P = 0.05) and the rate of macrosomia (3.3% vs. 16.7%, P = 0.08) in the magnesium-zinc-calcium-vitamin D supplemented women.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the findings of this study have demonstrated that magnesium-zinc-calcium-vitamin D co-supplementation for 6 weeks to women with GDM may reduce biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress. This study was retrospectively registered on 25 April 2017 in the Iranian website ( www.irct.ir ) for clinical trials registration ( http://www.irct.ir : IRCT201704225623N109).

The Role of Mineral and Trace Element Supplementation in Exercise and Athletic Performance: A Systematic Review

Minerals and trace elements (MTEs) are micronutrients involved in hundreds of biological processes. Deficiency in MTEs can negatively affect athletic performance. Approximately 50% of athletes have reported consuming some form of micronutrient supplement; however, there is limited data confirming their efficacy for improving performance. The aim of this study was to systematically review the role of MTEs in exercise and athletic performance. Six electronic databases and grey literature sources (MEDLINE; EMBASE; CINAHL and SportDISCUS; Web of Science and clinicaltrials.gov) were searched, in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Results: 17,433 articles were identified and 130 experiments from 128 studies were included. Retrieved articles included Iron (n = 29), Calcium (n = 11), Magnesium, (n = 22), Phosphate (n = 17), Zinc (n = 9), Sodium (n = 15), Boron (n = 4), Selenium (n = 5), Chromium (n = 12) and multi-mineral articles (n = 5). No relevant articles were identified for Copper, Manganese, Iodine, Nickel, Fluoride or Cobalt. Only Iron and Magnesium included articles of sufficient quality to be assigned as 'strong'. Currently, there is little evidence to support the use of MTE supplementation to improve physiological markers of athletic performance, with the possible exception of Iron (in particular, biological situations) and Magnesium as these currently have the strongest quality evidence. Regardless, some MTEs may possess the potential to improve athletic performance, but more high quality research is required before support for these MTEs can be given. PROSPERO preregistered (CRD42018090502).

Magnesium and vitamin B2 supplementation is an important nutritional resource of sports medicine

The supply of the with magnesium and vitamin B2 is essential to maintain the energy metabolism of cells, hormonal balance, endurance, immunity, cardiovascular health of athletes. As a result, by increasing the availability of these micronutrients, it is possible to increase maximum aerobic power, achieve better sports results and stimulate adequate recovery after competition or after intensive training. A promising way to increase the supply of athletes with magnesium and vitamin B2 is the use of aqueous solutions of magnesium citrate in combination with riboflavin.

Nutritional Aspects of the Female Athlete

Athletes have specific needs based on sex, size, sport, exercise intensity, duration of activity, phase of training, and the season in which the sport is played. Nutritionally, the female athlete is unique, with needs that may vary based on hormonal fluctuations related to the menstrual cycle. This article provides an overview of the distinct nutritional needs and concerns of the physically active female, including energy availability, macronutrient needs, micronutrient needs, hydration, supplements, and other nutritional issues. Although there is some research focusing specifically on the female athlete and her exceptional nutritional concerns, further gender-specific exploration is needed in all areas.