Evaluation of vitamin D level, iron homeostasis, and hematological parameters following two weeks of live-high-train-high altitude in elite female and male alpine skiers d'élite et masculins

Background. - The association of vitamin D and hematological factors and their changes during high altitude training remains unclear among alpine skiers. This study aimed to evaluate the vitamin D level, iron Homeostasis, and hematological parameters in alpine skiers following two weeks of ski training at high altitude. Methods. - Twenty alpine skiers were divided randomly into experimental (n = 12) and control (n = 8) groups. The subjects were selected among Iran's junior alpine skier national team volunteers. Anthropometric parameters were measured, and blood samples were collected to analyze the CBC, plasma ferritin concentration, PTH, serum 25 (OH) D, and other Iron metabolism variables before and after 2 weeks of the intervention. Each training session at 3600 m altitude for two weeks consisted of 10 mins of warm-up, the main ski training, and 5 mins of cool-down. The paired sample, and independent samples t-test to compare the mean of variables within and between groups using SPSS software at a significant level of P < 0.05. Results. - Both groups had no differences in pre-test values. After two weeks, the experimental group showed significant decreases (P < 0.05) in anthropometric characteristics such as body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), percentage of body fat (PBF), and fat-free mass (FFM). The experimental group also demonstrated decreased levels of Fe (-19% vs -7%), Tfs (-27% vs -6%), Ca2+ (-9% vs 0%), and vitamin D (-22% vs -1%) comparing control group (P < 0.05). The experimental group showed significant increases (P < 0.05) in hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBCs), hematocrit (Hct), ferritin, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC). However, parathyroid hormone (PTH), mean corpuscular volume (MVC), white blood cells (WBC), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) did not show significant changes when compared to the control group (P > 0.05). Conclusion. - Research suggests that a two-week skiing training regimen (3000-3600m) can have a noteworthy effect on the iron homeostasis and vitamin D levels of male and female athletes. Given the common occurrence of vitamin D inadequacies among skiers, they should seek medical advice and incorporate vitamin D and iron supplements into their routine to minimize the risk of fractures, contusions, and hypothermia. (c) 2024 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.