Thalassemia is a type of genetic disorder that affects red blood cells. The body normally produces these cells, which carry a protein called hemoglobin that's responsible for transporting oxygen molecules. People with thalassemia have a genetic defect that can cause low production of red blood cells or less hemoglobin within the red blood cells. How significant the level of thalassemia is depends on the genetic inheritance and which type of protein chain is affected. The effects of thalassemia influence a person's ability to perform some forms of exercise, including bodybuilding.
Types
A defect in the alpha protein portion of hemoglobin is known as alpha thalassemia, a type that can range from being a silent carrier to becoming a fatal illness for some children. Another form of thalassemia affects the beta protein found on hemoglobin and is known as beta thalassemia. This form can cause moderate to severe anemia. People with thalassemias typically need frequent blood transfusions to maintain an adequate amount of healthy red blood cells. They may also be more prone to infection and often need regular medical checkups, says the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
Iron
Frequent blood transfusions associated with treatment of thalassemia can cause a buildup of iron in the bloodstream. This occurs because hemoglobin is a type of protein that's high in iron. Some people who engage in regular bodybuilding may have a diet that's high in protein, believing that this helps support muscle growth. According to Mass General Hospital, protein intake that is higher than the recommended daily amount has not been shown to enhance muscle mass, yet many people continue to follow this theory. High-protein foods also typically contain high levels of iron, and for a person with thalassemia who requires frequent blood transfusions, this adds to potentially high levels of iron in the bloodstream.
Weightlifting
When you lift weights, your muscles require more oxygen to keep moving. Bodybuilding often involves measuring the amount of muscle mass that you have, as well as assessing muscle distinction. Many people who practice bodybuilding use free weights or weight machines to develop muscle for definition. Under normal circumstances, the heart sends more oxygenated blood to the muscles when they're being used for weightlifting. For people with thalassemia, the low hemoglobin levels that are often found in red blood cells can't deliver enough oxygen to supply the muscles. This can cause muscle pain and poor results with building muscle tissue through bodybuilding.
Other Symptoms
Some people who have severe symptoms of thalassemia may have difficulty with bodybuilding or weightlifting because of a lack of energy. Children and adolescents often have slow periods of growth and delayed onset of puberty. Other, adult symptoms include a pale, listless appearance and lack of strength. Additionally, thalassemia may cause brittle or fragile bones, increasing the risk of fracture when working with heavy weights or through resistance training, says the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
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