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Why should athletes care about ferritin levels even if they are not anemic?

My ferritin is low, but I’m not anemic. There are many different kinds of anemia, but iron deficiency anemia is perhaps the most common. But among athletes, iron deficiency with no anemia (IDNA) is much more prevalent. This means ferritin levels are low but red blood cell production is still normal. First, let’s define anemia, which in this context is simply not having enough red blood cells in your blood, which is measured by looking Read more…

By Ofer, ago

Complete Blood Count For Athletes Explained (CBC)

The CBC or complete blood count is an important panel for athletes. Complete Blood Count For Athletes measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelet levels along with associated markers. For athletes, red blood cells are crucial because they are responsible for delivering oxygen around the body. During exercise efficient oxygen delivery is essential for optimal athletic performance. The white blood cells are part of the immune system. The immune system responds to stimuli Read more…

By ABT Staff, ago
blood testing for athletes pro cyclist

Blood Testing for Athletes: What real athletes have to say!

Athlete Blood Test provides individually-tailored, athlete-focused blood biomarker testing to all athletes. Athletes use blood testing to help you dial in their nutrition, recovery, training, and performance. Every athlete is unique. Population-based insights aren’t our thing. Our recommendations are specific to athletic performance and are unique to you as an athlete. They take into account published research, answers from your athlete questionnaire, and experience working exclusively with athletes. Nicholas Chase on blood testing ABT has Read more…

By Ofer, ago
Athlete vaccine covid-19

COVID-19 implications for Athletes

Should Athletes get the COVID-19 vaccine? Yes (for the most part, but please discuss with your medical provider). Here’s why.  From a practical standpoint, controlling the pandemic can help avoid further cancellation of sporting events and vaccines can help prevent transmission to teammates, opponents, support staff, and spectators.  Though limited, there have been several studies that have shown that exercise can actually help boost the immune response to the influenza vaccine and at the very Read more…

By ABT Staff, ago

Why rest days are so important for athletes

Sometimes taking a rest day is the toughest part of the week. It feels like everyone else is out training while you’re stuck at home twiddling your thumbs. It turns out that your recovery day is one of the most important days of the week and essential for health and optimal performance. So if you need some extra reasons to take your recovery day seriously, read on.  Sex hormone balance Recovery days can improve sex Read more…

By Ańna, ago
blood test for female athletes

Ladies Leverage Your Physiology!

It’s not in your head Ladies, it’s not in your head- your physiology, training, and nutrition needs change throughout the month.  It’s time to leverage this information to work smarter, not harder, for better results. The science related to training around the menstrual cycle is emerging, yet very exciting. Ending underrepresentation  Since the passage of Title IX in 1972, the number of women participating in sports continues to skyrocket.  But up until relatively recently, women have Read more…

By Ańna, ago
female athlete blood hormones

Q&A with Dr. A’nna Roby

Does estrogen play a role in recovery? Estrogen provides benefits during a workout that can help with recovery. For example, it prevents inflammation and limits free radical damage. This is helpful because less damage means quicker recovery from workouts. Furthermore, estrogen limits muscle damage itself, which reduces soreness. In terms of recovery itself, estrogen helps rebuild and remodel skeletal muscle.  Why do I feel warmer, hungrier, and sweat more at certain times of the month? Read more…

By ABT Staff, ago

How frequently should athletes get a blood test?

How often should athletes check their blood markers? Here at Athlete Blood Test, we analyze many professional and elite athletes’ blood several times a year. Sometimes we even analyze their blood a few times during a season. But why? And should enthusiasts and recreational athletes do the same? As you’ll see below, the benefits of repeat testing extend to every athlete.  Let’s dive into the reasons why an athlete might want to do repeat blood Read more…

By ABT Staff, ago

Which form of vitamin B12 should athletes take?

Vitamin B12 for athletes Vitamin B12 for athletes plays an important role in athletic performance. It’s a water-soluble vitamin that’s essential for red blood cell production, brain function and DNA synthesis. Low vitamin B12 can lead to anemia and cause a variety of symptoms, but most commonly athletes report feeling fatigued. Because athletes have a much higher physiological need for vitamin B12 and other micronutrients, symptoms can be felt well before a true deficiency occurs. Read more…

By Ańna, ago

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