The present study investigated the effect of training load and nutritional supplements on iron profile in Indian female hockey players during three different phases of training. Forty five female hockey players blood samples were collected at the end of each training phase for the evaluation of hemoglobin, ferritin, iron, total iron binding capacity and transferrin saturation. In female hockey players, the level of hemoglobin, iron, ferritin and transferrin saturation increased significantly from preparatory phase to competitive phase. 58%, 13% and 2% of players had less hemoglobin, transferrin saturation and iron levels respectively in preparatory phase and was reduced to 7%, 4% and 0% in the competitive phase due to increase in iron storage level by the iron supplements of 59.9 mg/day. More than 60mg of elemental iron/day was needed to meet the metabolic demand of a game. Increase in ferritin level by nutritional supplements improved the hemoglobin, iron and transferrin saturation level. High intensity training decreased the iron storage and thereby decreased the performance. Hence, the routine use of iron supplements may be beneficial. It is also essential to check the iron profile during different phases of training to detect/prevent sports anemia.
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