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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Minerals

Ferritin: the meaning of your ferritin value

Ferritin is crucial for active individuals as iron supports oxygen delivery to muscles. Low iron stores can significantly impact endurance, recovery, and overall training capacity.

Reference Ranges

Male
ug/l
Low 30 Normal 300 High
Female
ug/l
Low 15 Normal 150 High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

What It Measures

This test measures the amount of ferritin in your blood. Low ferritin indicates depleted iron stores, while high ferritin may suggest iron overload or inflammation.

Why It Matters

Iron is essential for oxygen transport, energy production, and immune function. Ferritin testing helps detect iron deficiency before anaemia develops, or iron overload which can damage organs. Consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.

When to Test

Testing may be recommended if you experience fatigue, weakness, pale skin, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Women with heavy menstrual periods and active individuals may benefit from regular ferritin monitoring.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Symptoms of low ferritin may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, brittle nails, hair loss, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Low ferritin can precede iron-deficiency anaemia.

High Levels

High ferritin may be associated with joint pain, abdominal pain, fatigue, and skin discolouration. Elevated levels can indicate iron overload, liver disease, or chronic inflammation.

Recommendations

Male

If Low

Low ferritin indicates depleted iron stores. Consider iron supplementation and dietary iron increase (red meat, spinach).

If High

High ferritin may indicate inflammation, hemochromatosis, or liver disease. Consider CRP testing and comprehensive metabolic evaluation.

Female

If Low

Low ferritin indicates depleted iron stores. Consider iron supplementation and dietary iron increase (red meat, spinach, fortified cereals).

If High

High ferritin may indicate inflammation, hemochromatosis, or liver disease. Consider CRP testing and comprehensive metabolic evaluation.

Lifestyle Tips

Include iron-rich foods such as lean red meat, poultry, fish, beans, and fortified cereals. Pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources to enhance absorption. Avoid drinking tea or coffee with meals, as they can reduce iron absorption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ferritin and iron?
Iron is the mineral itself, while ferritin is the storage protein for iron. Ferritin reflects your body's long-term iron reserves, making it a better indicator of overall iron status.
Can ferritin be high without iron overload?
Yes, ferritin can be elevated due to inflammation, infection, or liver disease, even without true iron overload. Your healthcare provider may order additional tests to clarify the cause.
How can I increase my ferritin levels naturally?
Eating iron-rich foods, pairing them with vitamin C, and avoiding inhibitors like tea and coffee with meals may help. Consult your healthcare provider before starting iron supplements.