Description
If you’re feeling unusually tired, short of breath, or dizzy, low ferritin levels could be part of the reason. These symptoms are commonly linked with iron deficiency but may also overlap with conditions like anaemia, thyroid disorders, or low vitamin D levels.
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your body and releases it when needed. It plays a vital role in keeping your cells healthy and is mostly found in the liver, spleen, bone marrow, and muscles. A ferritin blood test is a reliable way to assess how much iron your body has in reserve.
Low ferritin levels typically point to iron deficiency, which may be caused by factors such as anaemia, poor dietary intake, or—in women—heavy menstrual bleeding. High ferritin levels, on the other hand, may signal that the body is holding onto too much iron, often due to chronic inflammation, liver disease, or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
How to Raise Ferritin Levels
To support healthy ferritin levels, increase your intake of iron-rich foods such as:
- Lean meats
- Beans and nuts
- Dark green leafy vegetables
- Iron-fortified cereals
It’s also important to include Vitamin C-rich foods (like oranges, strawberries, or peppers) in your meals, as Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron more effectively.
How often should I test my ferritin levels?
We recommend testing your ferritin levels when experiencing any of the below symptoms, or having a restricted diet.
Our Nurses visit your Home or Work to take your blood.
Pick a time and date to suit you.
Your results are available online within days of your blood being taken.
Other Questions
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Pale skin
- Palpitations
- Joint pain
- Stomach ache
This blood test is to check on:
- The amount of ferritin (iron) in the blood
The test can be taken at any time throughout the day.
Collection method: Venous blood
Results available: 1-2 days after the sample has reached the laboratory.
Ferritin
Ferritin is a blood protein which contains iron. The test will measure how much iron your body stores. Low levels may be indicative of anaemia, too high could be indicative of iron overload.
How it Works
1. Order a Test
Order your test, and then Answer the Questions about why you’re taking that test.
Our nurse will contact you for dates, so they can take your blood sample at your home.
Our nurse will then send your sample to our laboratory.
2. Our laboratory team run the tests
Our skilled laboratory staff conduct your blood tests in a clean and secure environment, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Each test follows strict protocols to maintain the highest quality standards.
3. Receive Your Results within 7 days
We will email you to inform you that your blood test results are ready.
The email will have a PDF report attached, sent directly to your inbox.
4. Monitor your levels over time
With regular ongoing tests and reports, you can track your results. The reports can be shared with your GP.
Check if you’re improving healthily or where changes could be made.


