What can zinc supplementation significantly increase?
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Your appetite, even if you’re not deficient in zinc.
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What can zinc supplementation significantly increase?
Your appetite, even if you’re not deficient in zinc.
What is the recommended maximum daily intake of zinc from supplements?
40 mg per day.
What are some of the best animal sources of iron?
Red meats, organ meats like liver and kidney, and some types of shellfish.
Why should magnesium supplements be consumed with a meal?
Because it enhances bioavailability.
Why might serum iron levels be normal even if total body iron is low?
Because serum iron only measures the iron in your blood, not the total iron stored in your body.
What is the recommended daily intake (RDI) of magnesium?
6 mg/kg/d.
What essential trace element does the body use to create thyroid hormones?
Iodine.
Where is iodine primarily found?
In seawater and soil nearby the sea.
How much magnesium do many male strength trainees need daily?
Over 600 mg/d.
What is the primary function of iron in the body?
Iron is essential for the creation of hemoglobin in red blood cells and myoglobin in muscle cells.
How does iron deficiency affect physical performance?
Iron deficiency impairs oxygen transport, reducing endurance capacity and resistance to fatigue, and can also impair strength.
Name two substances that inhibit iron absorption.
Coffee and tea inhibit iron absorption.
What type of diet should ensure sufficient manganese intake?
A diet rich in plants.
What foods are recommended for optimal zinc intake?
Dark meats, organ meats, or certain kinds of shellfish.
What are the Adequate Intake (AI) and Upper Tolerable Intake (UTI) levels for chloride?
The AI is 2.3 g and the UTI is 3.6 g.
What are some common symptoms of zinc deficiency?
Poor skin quality, inflammatory or microbial conditions of the mouth, and poor hair quality.
What is the role of magnesium in the body?
Magnesium is one of the body's most abundant and important minerals and electrolytes.
What is the Tolerable Upper Intake Level for zinc?
40 mg daily.
What is the primary function of copper in the body?
Copper functions as a co-factor in enzymes, acts as an antioxidant, and is involved in ATP production, collagen and elastin cross-linking, blood clotting, immune function, and gene expression.
What is transferrin and what does it do?
Transferrin is a protein that carries iron in your blood and is made by your liver.
What do high transferrin levels indicate?
A sign of iron-deficiency anemia.
Why is the vitamin B12 content of foods more important than the actual cobalt present?
Because vitamin B12 cannot be synthesized from dietary cobalt.
Why are vegetarians recommended an 80% higher RDI for iron?
Because plant-based diets generally provide less bioavailable iron.
What does a serum iron test measure?
The amount of iron in your blood.
Which minerals should not be taken with magnesium supplements due to competition for absorption?
Calcium and, to a lesser extent, zinc.
What is the primary role of chromium in the body?
It regulates glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
Why might bloodwork not accurately reflect magnesium levels in the body?
Because sufficient levels in the blood do not necessarily reflect those in the body.
What are the beneficial effects of boron consumption?
Boron consumption has beneficial effects on bones, the immune system, the brain, and the testes.
Why might high ferritin levels not necessarily indicate iron overload?
Because ferritin can also be elevated due to inflammation.
What effect does food generally have on iron bioavailability?
Food generally reduces iron bioavailability.
Why is it practical to consume iron supplements after meals rich in vitamin C and low in calcium?
Because vitamin C enhances iron absorption and calcium competes with iron absorption.
Which foods are rich in chromium?
Beef, peanuts, cheese, mushrooms, green peppers, broccoli, bananas, and orange and grape juices.
What foods are abundant in boron?
Legumes, nuts, avocados, and high-protein animal foods. Fruits and vegetables in large quantities will also cover boron needs.
How does magnesium affect sleep?
Magnesium regulates sleep and may improve sleep quality, reduce insomnia, and counteract the loss of exercise tolerance during sleep deprivation.
What is the Tolerable Upper Intake Level for copper?
10 mg/day
What forms of magnesium are recommended for supplementation?
Magnesium citrate, magnesium chloride, magnesium lactate, magnesium gluconate, and magnesium aspartate.
Why should you have bloodwork done before taking iron supplements?
Due to the risk of iron toxicity, it's important to check your iron levels first.
Why is zinc deficiency difficult to diagnose through blood work?
The majority of zinc is stored inside cells, making blood work not very reliable.
Why do athletes need more zinc than sedentary individuals?
Because zinc's functions are crucial for exercising individuals, and intensive exercise increases zinc requirements.
What are more severe symptoms of zinc deficiency?
Compromised immune function, diarrhea, loss of appetite, decreased taste and smell, low testosterone, and depression.
What are the effects of zinc deficiency on the body?
Zinc deficiency can stunt growth and human development, decrease testosterone levels, and cause lean body mass losses.
Why should you avoid taking zinc supplements with meals rich in dairy or calcium?
High calcium intakes interfere with zinc absorption.
What does total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) measure?
It measures how much of the transferrin in your blood isn't carrying iron.
What is the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for copper for adults?
The RDA for copper is 0.9 mg/day.
What does a high level of total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) suggest?
It suggests iron deficiency.
How does the RDA for copper change during pregnancy and lactation?
During pregnancy, the RDA for copper increases to 1 mg/day, and during lactation, it increases to 1.3 mg/day.
Which food has the highest selenium content per serving listed?
Fish (e.g., cod or salmon) with 30-50 μg per 3 oz.
What is the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of iodine for adults?
At least 150 micrograms (0.15 mg) a day.
What is the recommended dietary intake of iron for men and women?
The recommended dietary intake is 11 mg for men and 18 mg for women, rising to 27 mg when pregnant or lactating.
What inhibits the absorption of magnesium by approximately 60%?
Phytic acid found in legumes, cacao, and grains.
What is vanadium's significance in pharmaceuticals?
Vanadium has potent effects in pharmaceuticals, but the threshold dosage required for those effects is much larger than found in food.
What is the primary take-home message regarding chromium intake?
Any diet based on whole foods should ensure enough chromium intake.
What is often done to assess magnesium deficiency?
Hair tests.
How is chloride most commonly consumed?
Chloride is almost exclusively consumed along with sodium in table salt (sodium chloride with 60% chloride).
What is the primary take-home message regarding chloride intake?
As long as your sodium intake is under control, your chloride intake will be as well.
What does serum ferritin indicate?
The amount of stored iron in your body.
Why do athletes likely need at least 20% more magnesium than the RDI?
Due to increased need for magnesium during muscle repair and increased magnesium losses via sweat and urine.
What can happen if you consume more than the Tolerable Upper Intake Level of zinc?
It can decrease 'good' HDL-cholesterol levels and induce copper deficiency.
What did Ferrando & Green (1993) find about boron supplementation in bodybuilders?
They found no effect of boron supplementation on testosterone levels, strength development, or muscle growth compared to placebo.
How can sufficient magnesium intake benefit physical performance?
It can increase testosterone production, strength, lean body mass, muscular endurance, decrease stress levels, and protect against muscle damage.
What does transferrin saturation measure?
It measures how much transferrin is bound to iron.
What are the richest sources of copper in the diet?
The richest sources of copper are meats (especially organ meats like liver) and shellfish (especially oysters and lobster).
How much more iron do athletes need compared to non-athletes?
Athletes need up to 50% more iron, depending on their level of exercise.
What is the Tolerable Upper Intake Level for manganese?
11 mg/day.
What types of foods are necessary to ensure adequate magnesium intake?
High dietary fiber from minimally processed or traditionally prepared carbohydrate sources, green veggies, or seafood.
What is chloride and what is its primary function?
Chloride is an essential mineral that functions as an electrolyte.
What are the major functions of fluoride?
Fluoride's major functions are related to bone mineralization and the formation of dental enamels. It increases the resistance of enamel to acid demineralization and increases tooth mineralization.
What are the primary functions of zinc in the body?
Zinc is essential for immune functioning, protein synthesis, testicular functioning, testosterone production, and wound healing.
How much magnesium does a healthy body contain?
22 - 24 grams.
Why did boron become popular in bodybuilding circles?
Because multiple studies showed that boron supplementation increased free testosterone levels in sedentary populations.
Why has iodine deficiency become a problem in modern times?
Because modern drinking water and salt are so refined that they are now devoid of iodine, and many cultivated lands are away from the coast.
What solution did the Swiss government implement in 1922 to combat iodine deficiency?
Adding iodine to table salt.
What is the adjusted recommended daily intake of zinc for men and women considering intensive exercise?
The adjusted recommended daily intake is 20 mg for men and 14 mg for women.
Why is it important to consume zinc regularly?
Because zinc has only a few limited storage sites in the body, so it needs to be consumed regularly, ideally daily.
Is there a practical toxicity risk associated with silicon?
No, there doesn't seem to be any practical toxicity risk.
Which group is typically at risk of iron toxicity rather than deficiency?
Men on omnivorous, high-protein diets.
Which group should pay careful attention to consuming iron-rich foods?
Female athletes with an intact menstrual cycle.
What is cobalt's role in the human body?
Cobalt is part of vitamin B12 (cobalamin).
What are some good dietary options to consume enough iodine if you can't purchase iodized salt?
Eat marine seafood regularly.
What does hematocrit measure?
It measures how much space red blood cells take up in your blood.
Is manganese toxicity a common concern?
No, toxicity is rarely a concern.
What should you do if you don't consume dark meats, organ meats, or certain kinds of shellfish?
You should probably supplement zinc, but don’t exceed 40 mg per day.
Why is fluoride often found in toothpaste and water supply?
Because it is good for your teeth, increasing the resistance of enamel to acid demineralization and increasing tooth mineralization.
What role does selenium play in the body?
Selenium is part of enzymatic reactions, plays a role in ATP generation, DNA repair, and the immune system.
What do low ferritin levels signify?
A clear sign of iron deficiency.
How much magnesium do many female strength trainees need daily?
Over 400 mg/d.
What are some health issues caused by insufficient magnesium?
Insulin resistance, possible vitamin D deficiency, low testosterone, depression, bone loss, stress hypersensitivity, high blood pressure, and disturbed neuromuscular functioning.
Why should vegetarians pay attention to their copper intake?
Because seafood and meat are the most abundant dietary sources of copper.
What might low transferrin levels indicate?
Possible liver problems.
What role does silicon play in the body?
Silicon is found in bones, connective tissues, and cartilage, and is thought to play both metabolic and structural roles.
Which foods are most prevalent in magnesium?
Chocolate/cacao, nuts, beans, and grains.
What is often the first test used to diagnose anemia?
A complete blood count (CBC).
Is there a significant toxicity risk associated with chromium intake?
No, there is practically no toxicity risk.
What does the complete blood count (CBC) measure?
It measures many parts of your blood, including hemoglobin and hematocrit levels.
Which whole foods rank highly in magnesium content?
Green leafy vegetables and seafood.
What is a common dietary solution for lacto-ovo vegetarians to avoid iron deficiency?
They often have to resort to supplementation or large amounts of eggs.
What is the concern with nickel intake above 1 mg/day?
Toxicity.
What happens if your magnesium intake is much too high?
You may experience stomach cramps and diarrhea.
What are some of the enzymatic and metabolic roles of iron?
Iron acts as a co-factor for many enzymes and plays a role in ATP production, amino acid metabolism, niacin synthesis, antioxidant functioning, hormone synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, and DNA synthesis.
What is a primary take-home message regarding iron optimization?
Iron is tricky to optimize due to significant risks of both deficiency and toxicity.
Why are female trainees at a higher risk of iron deficiency?
Due to monthly blood loss during menstruation and differences in iron metabolism.
Does sea salt contain sufficient amounts of iodine?
No, sea salt generally only contains trace amounts of minerals.
Why might vegetarian athletes need to supplement iron?
Because they are likely to have lower iron intake from their diet.
What is the Tolerable Upper Intake Level for iron for adults?
45 mg.
What is the primary take-home message regarding iodine consumption?
Sufficient iodine consumption requires significant amounts of dairy or seafood or semi-regular consumption of seaweed. Using iodized salt is highly recommended to minimize deficiency risk.
What is the Tolerable Upper Intake Level for calcium, and why should it not be exceeded?
The Tolerable Upper Intake Level is 2,500 mg, beyond which gastrointestinal side effects can occur. However, the body can only absorb about 800 mg of calcium per serving, so consuming more is unnecessary.
Which food contains the highest amount of zinc per serving?
Oyster, with 12.8 mg of zinc per serving.
What does a low level of transferrin saturation suggest?
It suggests iron deficiency.
What mechanisms allow magnesium to improve sleep quality?
Magnesium activates the parasympathetic nervous system, regulates melatonin secretion, and binds to GABA receptors.
What might happen if copper intake is below the Tolerable Upper Intake Level?
It may cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.
What is the primary take-home message regarding selenium intake?
Any diet based on minimally processed foods should ensure enough selenium intake.
What is the primary take-home message regarding copper intake?
Most whole foods-based diets will ensure enough copper intake, though vegetarians may need to check their diet.
What should female strength trainees consider incorporating into their diet to avoid iron deficiency?
Organ meat, particularly liver and kidney, or seafood, or at least consume meat or shellfish daily.
Why are plants considered poor sources of iron?
Plants contain non-heme iron, which is difficult for the body to absorb, and many plants also contain polyphenols and phytochemicals that inhibit iron absorption.
What compounds in legumes and grains inhibit iron absorption?
Legumes and grains contain phytic acid, which binds with iron and makes it unavailable for the human body.
How much iodine is recommended during pregnancy and lactation?
220 mcg during pregnancy and 290 mcg during lactation.
What is hemoglobin?
An iron-rich protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the body.
What is molybdenum required for in the body?
Molybdenum is required for enzymatic processes and functions like an antioxidant.
What is a serious concern associated with excessive iron consumption?
Iron toxicity, which increases the risk of cancer and can shorten life expectancy.
What might abnormal CBC results indicate?
A sign of infection, a blood disorder, or another condition.
Why is calcium absorption typically poor in vegan diets?
Because vegan diets often lack the factors that increase calcium bioavailability and contain anti-nutrients that reduce it.
What is the recommended form of calcium to supplement?
Calcium citrate.
Why might other whole foods no longer be reliable sources of iodine?
Because soil concentration has become so low in modern times.
What are some of the key functions of calcium in the body?
Neuromuscular functioning, satiety signaling, regulation of blood flow, and bone health.
What is the recommended dietary allowance for calcium for most people?
One gram.
What is the primary take-home message regarding phosphorus intake?
If your diet has any resemblance of healthiness, you don’t need to worry about phosphorus.
Which food contains the highest amount of iron per 100 grams?
Beef liver, with 4.9 mg of iron per 100 grams.
What are some good food sources of calcium?
Dairy, sardines, lots of salmon, and a ton of vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale.
Why is it difficult to avoid calcium deficiency without consuming dairy?
Because dairy is a rich source of calcium, and it is challenging to get the maximally beneficial amount of calcium from non-dairy sources alone.
How often should you consume seaweed to ensure adequate iodine intake?
Once or twice a week.
What roles does manganese play in the body?
Manganese plays a role in bone, cartilage, and connective tissue synthesis, urea synthesis, carbohydrate/nutrient metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and acts as an antioxidant.
What is the Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) of manganese for men?
2.3 mg
What is the RDI of manganese for pregnant women?
2 mg
What are some of the important functions of phosphorus in the body?
Bone mineralization, DNA formation, ATP metabolism, cell membrane structure, and acid-base balance.
What is the recommended dietary allowance for calcium during periods of growth?
1.3 grams.
What is a popular form of iodine supplement?
Kelp capsules.
What does a low level of hemoglobin or hematocrit indicate?
It is a sign of anemia.
What is the RDI of manganese for women?
1.8 mg
What is the RDI of manganese for lactating women?
2.6 mg
How does the thyroid handle overconsumption of iodine?
The thyroid autoregulates its production very well.
What is the primary take-home message regarding molybdenum intake?
Any whole foods-based diet should cover molybdenum requirements.
What percentage of the body's calcium is found in bones?
99%
How does calcium intake affect athletes in terms of fat gain?
Athletes that consume more calcium tend to gain less fat than those who consume little calcium, independent of energy intake.
Name some of the best food sources of calcium.
Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt), selected seafood (salmon, sardines with bones, clams, oysters), selected vegetables (turnips, mustard greens, broccoli, cauliflower, kale), legumes, tofu, and nuts.
What other components does the CBC check besides hemoglobin and hematocrit?
The number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
What should you consider when supplementing calcium?
Calcium, magnesium, and zinc compete with each other’s absorption, so calcium supplements should be taken with meals low in these minerals, particularly magnesium.
What factors reduce calcium bioavailability in plants?
Anti-nutrients such as oxalates, tannins, and phytates.
What can inhibit magnesium absorption?
Phytic acid, Fiber, Excessive unabsorbed fatty acids, Calcium, iron, and zinc (competitive)
Why is magnesium oxide not recommended for supplementation?
Because it is poorly absorbed and can irritate the digestive tract.
Why is calcium citrate preferred over calcium carbonate for supplementation?
Calcium citrate is better tolerated and does not cause acid rebound, stomach pain, or constipation like calcium carbonate can.
Why are vegetables like spinach, rhubarb, and Swiss chard considered poor sources of calcium?
Because they contain large amounts of oxalic acid, which binds calcium and inhibits its absorption.
Why aren't most starches the best sources of zinc?
Because the phytic acid in legumes and grains decreases the bioavailability of zinc by ~20%.