Aim: 21 male cross-country boxers were studied to evaluate sweat copper, zinc, iron, magnesium and chromium loss
in sweat.
Materials and methods: Sweat samples were collected at 50% VO2peak for 30 min while boxers training at room
temperature (~27 ºC, RH=51%) by the whole body method, using polyethylene bags. All samples were analyzed by
atomic absorption spectrometry.
Results: The mean concentrations of copper, zinc, iron, magnesium and chromium were found to be 37.7±5.4 μg/dl,
44.4±5.9 μg/dl, 113±9 μg/dl, 76.4±9.4 mg/dl and 9.8±0.6 μg/dl respectively. It appears that substantial quantities
of trace elements are excreted in the sweat of those sweating during the training.
Conclusion: For sportsmen, adequate amounts of these minerals are required for physical training and maximum
performance. Our results suggest that excretion of trace elements by sweating induces trace element decrease.
Mineral elements, including magnesium, zinc, copper, iron and chromium supplementation may be important to
ensure good health, consequently optimal physiological function and for maximum performance for the sportsmen.
Key Words: Magnesium, Copper, Zinc, Iron, Chromium, Sweat, Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer
|
