Ferritin
Blood Test (Iron)

If you have low ferritin levels, you may be experiencing symptoms of tiredness and breathlessness or you might even be feeling dizzy.

Ferritin Blood Test

If you are suffering from low ferritin levels, it is likely that you will be feeling dizzy and tired and you may also feel breathless. The symptoms of low ferritin levels are also similar to those of thyroid issues, low Vitamin D and anaemia.

Ferritin blood test – why would you check?

Ferritin is the protein which stores iron in the bloodstream, which releases iron when your body has a need for it. Ferritin is most commonly found in the skeletal muscles and bone marrow, as well as the spleen and liver.

Low ferritin levels can be an indicator of an iron deficiency. The root causes of iron deficiencies can be down to poor lifestyle choices and diet but they can also arise as a result of anaemia or excessive bleeding. Ferritin levels can also be high and this can be indicative of liver disease or rheumatoid arthritis. High ferritin levels also show that your body is storing too much iron and you may be suffering from an inflammatory condition as a result.

How to help increase your ferritin levels

Upping your ferritin levels can be increased by eating foods which are naturally rich in iron. Iron-rich foods include lean meats, beans and nuts and dark green leafy vegetables. Certain breakfast cereals have been fortified with iron. If you are increasing your intake of iron-rich foods, it will help to consume more Vitamin C rich foods, such as kiwis or oranges, to aid with iron absorption.