CSSD Micronutrient Needs in Athletes

Question 1

Which form of dietary iron has the highest bioavailability in athletes?

Accepted Answer

Heme iron from animal sources

Answer

Heme iron from animal sources is absorbed at 15–35%, far exceeding the 2–20% absorption rate of non-heme iron from plant foods.

Question 2

What is the primary physiological role of vitamin D relevant to athletic performance?

Accepted Answer

Supporting calcium absorption and muscle protein synthesis

Answer

Vitamin D facilitates intestinal calcium absorption and plays a role in muscle protein synthesis and neuromuscular function, making it critical for bone health and muscle performance.

Question 3

Which serum marker is the most sensitive indicator of iron stores in an athlete?

Accepted Answer

Ferritin

Answer

Serum ferritin reflects total body iron stores and is the earliest marker to decrease in iron depletion, though it can be falsely elevated during acute inflammation.

Question 4

Female endurance athletes are at elevated risk for iron deficiency primarily due to which combination of factors?

Accepted Answer

Menstrual iron losses, foot-strike hemolysis, and sweat iron losses

Answer

Female endurance athletes face multiple routes of iron loss including menstruation, mechanical hemolysis from foot-strike, gastrointestinal micro-bleeding, and sweat losses.

Question 5

What is the generally recommended daily calcium intake for adult athletes to support bone health?

Accepted Answer

1000–1300 mg/day

Answer

Adult athletes are advised to consume 1000–1300 mg of calcium daily, aligned with general population DRIs, to support bone remodeling under the stress of regular training.

(CSSD) Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics Practice Test

(CSSD) Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics Practice Test

CSSD Micronutrient Needs in Athletes