Abstract
Physical activity plays a crucial role in regulating whole-body metabolism, including the metabolism of minerals and trace elements, which are essential components of various metabolic pathways. Research has demonstrated that minerals such as iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) are involved in critical cellular processes, including antioxidant defense systems and cellular signaling, and their levels can significantly influence athletic performance. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the differences in serum levels of Fe, Cu, and Zn between athletic and sedentary populations. Serum concentrations of Zn, Fe, and Cu were measured using commercially available kits in 60 healthy young male students, who were divided into two groups: athletes and sedentary individuals. An independent T-test was employed to assess differences in mineral levels between the groups, while the Pearson correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the relationships between Fe, Cu, and Zn levels and age as well as body mass index (BMI). The results revealed that the athletic group had significantly higher serum Fe levels compared to the sedentary group (p-value = 0.012). However, no significant differences were observed in the concentrations of Zn and Cu between the two groups. Additionally, a significant correlation was found between Zn levels and age within the athlete group. These findings suggest that exercise, particularly mild resistance training, may enhance Fe status, leading to higher serum Fe levels in athletes. Furthermore, the study indicated that recreational bodybuilding athletes do not require Cu and Zn supplementation, as the levels of these elements were found to be sufficient in the athlete group. This highlights the importance of regular physical activity in maintaining optimal mineral balance and suggests that targeted supplementation may not be necessary for individuals engaged in recreational bodybuilding.