Hemochromatosis and sports performance: a systematic review

  • Paloma Martínez Ortega Department of Human Physiology, Human Histology, Pathological Anatomy and Physical and Sports Education. School of Medicine. Malaga University. Spain.
  • Javier Benítez-Porres Department of Human Physiology, Human Histology, Pathological Anatomy and Physical and Sports Education. School of Medicine. Malaga University. Spain.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.33155/j.ramd.2020.10.001
Keywords: Hemocromatosis hereditaria, Gen HFE, Hierro, Actividad física, Rendimiento deportivo Hereditary hemochromatosis, HFE gene, Iron, Physical activity, Sport performance Hemocromatose hereditária, Gene HFE, Ferro, Atividade física, Desempenho esportivo

Abstract

Introduction: hereditary hemochromatosis, by causing hyperferritinemia, may have the potential to increase aerobic capacity and sports performance in athletes. However, various studies claim that iron overload could affect physical performance and muscle function negatively.

Objective: the aim of this review was to collect and analyze evidence on the relationship between hereditary hemochromatosis and sports performance.

Method: A systematic review was carried out, according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) standards, in the following databases: Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed and Dialnet.

Results: after applying the inclusion / exclusion criteria, 13 articles were included and analyzed.

Conclusions: There are variations in the genes which are related to the aerobic capacity of the athletes. Currently, the HFE gene is not among the deoxyribonucleic acid polymorphisms that increase sports performance. The vast majority of the studies analyzed emphasize the need to assess the state of iron intake in athletes.

Published
2020-10-07
Issue
Vol. 14 No. 1 (2021): March 2021
Section
Revisiones
Page/s
53-57
DOI
https://doi.org/10.33155/j.ramd.2020.10.001