Which mineral is most commonly deficient in active women?

Iron is the mineral most commonly deficient in active women due to several factors related to both physiological and lifestyle elements. Women, especially those who are active and participate in regular physical exercise, often have increased iron requirements. This is primarily because of losses that occur through exercise, as well as menstrual blood loss.

Iron is vital for the production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to muscles during physical activity. When there is insufficient iron, it can lead to iron deficiency anemia, which causes fatigue, decreased endurance, and overall poor performance, all of which can significantly impact active women.

While calcium, magnesium, and selenium are important minerals for overall health and fitness, they are not as commonly associated with deficiencies in active women as iron is. Calcium is often adequately consumed through dairy products or fortified foods, magnesium is less likely to be deficient in those consuming a varied diet, and selenium deficiencies are quite rare in developed countries due to its presence in many foods.