Ferritin
Ferritin is a critical protein in the body that plays a key role in storing and managing iron.
Ferritin is not the same as the iron that circulates in the blood. Instead, it is a protein that stores iron and releases it when the body needs it. Ferritin is primarily found inside cells, with small amounts circulating in the blood.
The highest concentrations of ferritin are found in cells of the liver and immune system. Ferritin is stored until it is needed to make new red blood cells. When the body needs iron, it signals the cells to release ferritin, which binds to transferrin to transport the iron to the sites where new red blood cells are made.
Normal Ferritin Values
Normal ferritin levels vary by gender and age. For adult men, the range is 12-300 ng/mL, and for women, the range is 12-150 ng/mL. These ranges can vary slightly depending on the laboratory and the individual’s health conditions.
Ideally, ferritin levels should be between 40-200 ng/mL. Low levels, below 15 ng/L for adults and below 12 ng/L for children, indicate iron deficiency. Even levels as low as 30 ng/L can be considered signs of iron deficiency.
Causes of Low Ferritin
Low ferritin can result from a variety of causes. The main causes include:
- Inadequate dietary intake (e.g. diet, vegan diet)
- Increased body needs (e.g. pregnancy and breastfeeding)
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Internal bleeding
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease)
- Other gastrointestinal diseases (peptic ulcer, gastritis, esophagitis)
- Bariatric surgery
- Intense physical exercise (athletes)
- Hormonal disorders
- Hemodialysis
What Symptoms Does Low Ferritin Manifest?
Ferritin deficiency can cause various symptoms, which usually include:
- Headache
- Weakness and fatigue
- Dizziness and fainting
- Palpy skin
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid heartbeat
- Ringing in the ears
- Nervousness and irritability
- Pain in the legs and/or chest
- Skin and nail changes
- Hair loss
- Cracks at the corners of the mouth
- Inflamed tongue
- Pica disorder (e.g. geophagia)
In general, people with low ferritin may feel unexplained fatigue and exhaustion, exhibiting reduced stamina and ability to concentrate, as well as impaired memory. In the long term, ferritin deficiency can even lead to heart failure and various neurological problems.
Treatment
Treating low ferritin starts with diet. It is important to eat a diet rich in iron, but that alone is not enough. You also need to know which food combinations enhance iron absorption and which ones inhibit it.
In cases of very low iron and ferritin levels, it may be necessary to take iron supplements. In rare cases, and only under medical supervision, intravenous iron may be required.
Who is Most at Risk for Low Ferritin?
Certain groups of people are at increased risk of developing low iron and ferritin levels. These groups include:
- Women of reproductive age
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- People on a diet
- Vegans
- Very picky eaters
- Children and adolescents
- Athletes
Prevention
Prevention is the best strategy. It is recommended to have regular blood tests and follow a balanced diet that meets the body’s needs for iron and other essential nutrients.
In addition, it is important to consult your doctor when you experience symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, weakness, paleness or other unusual symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent more serious health problems.
Ferritin is much more than just an iron storage protein. It is critical for the proper functioning of the body and the prevention of serious diseases.
For more information about ferritin, contact us.