Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your body and releases it when needed. It plays a critical role in maintaining healthy blood, energy levels, and overall cellular function.
Low or high ferritin levels can signal problems such as anemia, chronic inflammation, or iron overload, making ferritin testing an important part of understanding your overall health.
What Is Ferritin?
Ferritin acts as your body’s iron reserve.
Most of the body’s iron is found in hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
Ferritin holds the remaining iron safely inside cells, releasing it when your body needs to make new red blood cells or support other essential functions.
In simple terms, ferritin helps balance iron storage and usage.
Without enough ferritin, your body may struggle to produce red blood cells efficiently, leading to fatigue and weakness. Too much ferritin can indicate excess iron or inflammation, which can damage organs if left unchecked.
What Causes Abnormal Ferritin Levels?
Ferritin levels can fluctuate due to diet, lifestyle, illness, or underlying medical conditions. Both low and high levels can have significant health implications.
Low Ferritin (Iron Deficiency)
Low ferritin usually means the body does not have enough stored iron.
Common causes include:
- Poor dietary intake of iron
- Blood loss from menstruation, ulcers, or internal bleeding
- Pregnancy or rapid growth periods
- Gastrointestinal disorders that limit absorption (such as celiac disease)
- Frequent blood donation
High Ferritin (Iron Overload or Inflammation)
High ferritin can occur when too much iron is stored or when inflammation raises ferritin levels as part of the body’s immune response. Common causes include:
- Hemochromatosis (a genetic condition causing excess iron absorption)
- Liver disease or alcohol-related damage
- Chronic infections or inflammatory diseases
- Frequent iron supplementation or transfusions
- Metabolic disorders such as obesity or diabetes
Common Symptoms of Abnormal Ferritin Levels
Low ferritin symptoms may include:
- Fatigue or low energy
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or headaches
- Pale skin
- Brittle nails or hair loss
High ferritin symptoms may include:
- Joint pain
- Abdominal pain
- Weakness or fatigue
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Unexplained weight loss
Because symptoms can be vague or overlap with other conditions, ferritin testing is often the best way to determine if your iron levels are in balance.
How to Get Tested for Ferritin
Testing ferritin levels is a simple blood test that measures how much iron your body has stored.
Common Screening Tests
- Ferritin blood test: Measures the amount of ferritin in the blood and helps assess iron storage.
- Iron studies panel: Includes ferritin, serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and transferrin saturation to give a complete picture of iron metabolism.
- Complete blood count (CBC): Evaluates red blood cell count and hemoglobin to detect anemia or related conditions.
- C-reactive protein (CRP) test: Helps determine whether inflammation is contributing to high ferritin levels.
How to Maintain Healthy Ferritin Levels
Maintaining balanced ferritin levels involves managing your iron intake and addressing any underlying conditions.
Practical Ways to Support Iron Balance
- Eat iron-rich foods such as lean meats, spinach, lentils, and fortified cereals
- Pair iron sources with vitamin C–rich foods to improve absorption
- Avoid excessive iron supplements unless prescribed
- Limit alcohol intake to protect liver function
- Get regular blood tests to monitor iron and ferritin levels, especially if you have chronic conditions or take supplements
Balanced ferritin supports energy production, oxygen transport, and immune health, making it an essential part of overall wellness.
Take Charge of Your Iron Health
Ferritin levels provide a valuable window into your body’s iron status and overall health.
Early testing can detect issues before symptoms worsen and guide the right treatment or dietary plan.
Schedule your ferritin screening near you today and take control of your energy and wellness.