For a female soldier training at high altitude, what is the minimum recommended daily iron intake?

For a female soldier training at high altitude, the minimum recommended daily iron intake is 18 mg. This recommendation is based on the higher iron requirements due to increased red blood cell production that occurs in response to lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. Iron is essential for the formation of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.

Women, especially those of reproductive age, typically have higher iron needs because they are at risk for iron deficiency due to menstruation and the additional demands placed on their bodies during physical activity and training. The 18 mg recommendation aligns with guidelines from health organizations concerning the iron needs of women, particularly those in physically demanding roles.

Training at high altitude enhances the risk of developing an iron deficiency due to increased physiological stress, making adequate iron intake crucial for maintaining performance, endurance, and overall health. This iron supply supports energy metabolism and helps mitigate fatigue during physical exertion.