Temporal changes in serum hepcidin concentrations and iron status in male Soldiers during military training

Abstract

Iron is a nutritionally essential trace element known to affect physical and cognitive performance in military personnel. Previous studies indicate reductions in iron status in Soldiers during basic combat training (BCT). As the mechanism conferring declines in iron status during BCT has not been elucidated, the objective of this longitudinal study was to investigate the temporal effects of a 10‐week BCT course on indicators of iron status and serum hepcidin concentrations in male Soldiers. Blood biomarkers were assessed in fasted volunteers (n = 99, age [mean ± SD] = 23 ± 5 yrs) at four timepoints (wks 0, 3, 6, and 9) during BCT. Iron status declined during BCT, as serum ferritin, transferrin saturation, and hemoglobin levels decreased (P < 0.05), and soluble transferrin receptor levels increased (P < 0.05) at wk 9 as compared to wk 0. Serum hepcidin levels decreased (P < 0.05) from wk 0 to wk 6 ([mean ± SEM] 35.2 ± 2.5 vs. 31.1 ± 2.0 ng/mL) and increased (P < 0.05) from wk 6 to wk 9 (31.1 ± 2.0 vs. 37.4 ± 2.4). Temporal changes in serum hepcidin observed during BCT may have an affect on iron status, however future studies will be required to determine the direct relationship between serum hepcidin and declines in iron status during military training. Research supported by MRMC.