[The specific features of copper and manganese metabolism in the use of iron-containing preparations].

ABSTRACT

AIM: To comparatively evaluate the efficiency of preventive treatment with various iron preparations on copper, manganese, and iron metabolic features in adult athletes. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Forty adult highly qualified sambo wrestlers were examined and divided into 4 groups of 10 persons in each. Group 1 athletes took iron-containing Sorbifer Durules in combination with ascorbic acid; Group 2 received Ferro Gradumet Vitamin C; Group 3 had Hemofer and ascorbic acid; Group 4 took ascorbic acid tablets. The latter group served as a control. Blood samples (15-20 ml) to be tested were taken at the beginning and end of 2-week use of iron preparations. The daily balance of iron, copper, and manganese was estimated following 7-day intake of these preparations. RESULTS: The use of iron-containing preparations in combination with ascorbic acid was ascertained to be accompanied by an increment in the plasma concentration of iron and blood corpuscles, indicating an increased need for this biotic and its deficiency in athletes. When the dose of iron was increased in the iron preparations, there was a substantial rise in the excretion of copper, manganese in particular, through the gastrointestinal tract and kidney and a negative balance of these trace elements in the body. CONCLUSION: Dietary addition of foods containing large amounts of ferrous iron, copper, and manganese is indicated for athletes exposed to higher intensity exercises.