How Does a Synbiotic Supplement Affect Iron Status During Iron Repletion in Iron Depleted Female Athletes?

Iron deficiency (ID) affects ~30% of female athletes, and its consequences are highly
relevant to athletic performance. Poor iron (Fe) uptake remains a major factor in the
development of ID. While animal studies suggest that prebiotics may improve Fe uptake, this
has not been well-studied in humans. The main objective of the proposed study is to determine
the effects of synbiotic supplementation on the Fe status of ID female athletes during Fe
repletion. At the beginning of a training season at a Division III University, the Fe status
of 28 female athletes (cross-country, lacrosse, basketball, field hockey) was screened.
Twenty eligible athletes (baseline Hgb:12.3±0.9g/dL; sFer:18.1±9.2µg/L) were then randomized
to receive either a daily synbiotic supplement (5g prebiotic fiber + 8 billion CFU probiotic
B. lactis) or placebo, along with a daily Fe supplement (140 mg FeSO4/d) for 8 weeks using a
double-blind design. Fe status and body composition were assessed at baseline, mid-point and
after the trial. Participants were instructed to keep daily logs of supplement intake,
physical activity, GI and other symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Female, >18 y of age, athlete at Marywood University, passed NCAA-required medical
screening (e.g. healthy enough to participate in sport).

Exclusion Criteria:

- Current, acute, chronic illness; severe asthma; pre-existing GI disorders known to
affect iron status or aggravated by iron supplementation; not pregnant or
breastfeeding; clinically-diagnosed with eating disorder; consuming iron supplement
within 4 weeks of screening; hemolytic anemia, excessive alcohol consumption.