Characteristics of Blood Lipid Profiles of Professional Athletes: A Literature Review

Regular physical activity significantly affects lipid status. In this literature review, the specific features of athletes blood lipid profiles were analysed. Professional athletes blood lipid status was found considerably preferable compared to sex- and age-matched sedentary population. Regardless of endurance or power type of sports activities, athletes perform lower levels of TC, LDL-C and TG and comparable or higher blood levels of HDL-C. The differences in blood lipids levels and sports disciplines were introduced. Although there are much more factors as diet, place of origin, training regime, and even genetic predisposition that should be taken into consideration for future research.