What is Low Ferritin, Why Does It Happen? Is It Dangerous?

Ferritin

Ferritin is an important biomarker that measures iron stores in the body. Abnormalities in ferritin levels can indicate various health problems in the body. Regular health checks and appropriate treatment methods are important for a healthy life. In this content, we will discuss in detail what is low ferritin, what causes it, and what causes low ferritin in the body.

What is Ferritin?

“What is ferritin?” Ferritin is the storage form of the mineral iron. Ferritin is a protein complex that stores iron in the body. It is involved in the storage and release of iron. It is a type of storage protein. Approximately 1 mg of iron is absorbed in the body per day. Body iron stores are protected with ferritin and have a close correlation to normal.

It is found in almost all body cells and its main function is to store and preserve iron. It is mostly found in liver and immune system cells. Ferritin stores iron when needed and releases iron when needed and works to produce sufficient hemoglobin.

Ferritin levels, which are used to measure the body’s iron reserves, vary according to gender and age; however, the normal value of ferritin is usually observed between 20-500 ml/ng in men and 20-200 ml/ng in women.

Study: “The role of ferritin in iron homeostasis and immune function” – Nature Reviews Immunology (2012)

Findings: The effects of ferritin on the immune system and its role in iron homeostasis were examined.

Source: Nature Reviews Immunology

What Should Ferritin Level Be? What Is The Normal Value?

Normal ferritin levels vary from lab to lab, but in most cases, 20-500 ml/ng is considered normal for men and 20-200 ml/ng for women. Results below the typical range indicate iron deficiency. These results can also mean anemia. High ferritin levels can have a variety of causes. More testing may be needed to determine the cause.

What is Low Ferritin?

Low ferritin is caused by iron deficiency, meaning that iron stores are low and have decreased. A ferritin level below normal levels due to blood tests is defined as low ferritin. Low ferritin is observed in a person when the body’s iron decreases. Low ferritin is diagnosed if the ferritin level is below 20 mg/nL in a blood test.

A person may experience high ferritin levels or a deficiency of ferritin levels for various reasons. Inadequate iron intake, increased iron needs, gastrointestinal bleeding, menstruation, pregnancy and breastfeeding are among the main causes of low ferritin levels.

What Causes Low Ferritin?

Low ferritin levels can occur due to various reasons such as nutrition, biology, and genetics. Common causes of low ferritin levels can be listed as follows:

  • The use of aspirin and steroid drugs can cause a decrease in iron in the blood, which can result in low ferritin.
  • Iron deficiency anemia, which is seen in many people in the community, is a cause of low ferritin.
  • Low ferritin levels can be seen in people with alcohol and smoking habits, because such harmful habits prevent the storage of iron.
  • Excessive tea and coffee consumption can reduce ferritin values.
  • Vitamin C deficiency can cause low ferritin.
  • Accidents and injuries that cause heavy blood loss are also a cause.
  • If women experience heavy bleeding during their menstrual periods, they may experience low ferritin. Heavy bleeding and blood loss can cause low ferritin.
  • Those with chronic infectious diseases may experience low ferritin.
  • Inflammation in the intestines prevents iron absorption and can lead to low ferritin in the blood.
  • Types of hepatitis and other liver diseases that occur in the liver cause low ferritin.
  • Low ferritin is a common condition in people diagnosed with cancer. Low ferritin levels can be observed especially in patients with colon and bowel cancer.

Study: “Iron deficiency anemia: a common and curable disease” – Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine (2013)

Findings: Symptoms and treatment methods of iron deficiency anemia are discussed.

Source: Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine

What are the symptoms of low ferritin?

Low ferritin indicates that the body does not have enough ferritin. It refers to ferritin values ​​that are below the normal range as a result of blood tests. As the amount of iron in the body decreases, a person may experience symptoms of low ferritin.

Whether a person has ferritin deficiency can be understood through biological and psychological signs. Symptoms of low ferritin can usually be observed as follows:

  • Weakness
  • Tiredness
  • Tension
  • Emotional transitions
  • Breakage of nails
  • Chapped lips
  • Pale
  • Increased pulse
  • Loss of appetite
  • Tinnitus
  • Hair loss
  • Feeling of numbness
  • Desire to eat soil
  • Inability to focus
  • Skin paleness
  • Forgetfulness

Study: World Health Organization. (2020). WHO guideline on use of ferritin concentrations to assess iron status in populations.

Results: This study used indicators to assess iron status in a specific group. Finally, iron interventions were monitored and ferritin concentrations were used to assess them. These are global evidence.

Source: World Health Organization.

How to Increase Ferritin?

Various steps can be taken to increase ferritin levels and things to consider. So, what is good for low ferritin, how can low ferritin be fixed? The following options can be evaluated under the supervision of a doctor and added to a nutrition plan:

  • Fresh Fruit: Consuming fresh fruits in season can help normalize ferritin levels.
  • Vitamin C: A diet rich in vitamin C is important for iron absorption. Foods such as lemon, orange, and tangerine support iron absorption.
  • Meat and Fish: Meat types such as red meat, poultry and fish help increase the amount of iron.
  • Iron Supplement: Iron pills that you can use with a doctor’s prescription will help. Iron pills prescribed by the doctor after the necessary tests should be used regularly and according to the procedure.
  • Green Leafy Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, kale, watercress, arugula, parsley, Brussels sprouts can help increase the amount of iron.
  • Nuts: Nuts and dried fruits have iron content. Almonds, dried apricots, dried peaches and grapes are examples of foods that increase the iron content.
  • Legumes: Dried legumes such as chickpeas, beans, red lentils, black-eyed peas and grains such as wheat, barley and oats are among the dried legumes that can be preferred for low ferritin.
  • Seafood: Consuming seafood in season can increase iron absorption.

Consuming Iron-Rich Foods

Foods rich in iron content are one of the effective ways to increase ferritin levels:

  • Red meat
  • sea ​​products
  • Legumes
  • Green leafy vegetables
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Dried fruits

Increasing Your Vitamin C Intake

Vitamin C is an important factor that increases iron absorption. Consuming foods rich in vitamin C along with foods that are sources of iron can help the body absorb iron much better. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), strawberries, kiwi, broccoli, and red peppers .

Taking Iron Supplements

Iron supplements can be effective for improving low ferritin levels. However, it is important to consult a doctor before using iron supplements, as excessive iron intake can be toxic and lead to health problems.

Treating Underlying Causes

Treating the underlying conditions that cause low ferritin can help return ferritin levels to normal. For example, if there is a condition that causes chronic blood loss (such as gastrointestinal bleeding), this should be treated. Similarly, conditions such as iron malabsorption should be treated.

Study: Koperdanova, M., & Cullis, J. O. (2015). Interpreting raised serum ferritin levels.

Findings: This study talks about what can be done to increase ferritin levels in serum.

Source: Bmj, 351.

What Causes Low Ferritin?

Low ferritin can lead to conditions such as iron deficiency anemia. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, pale skin, and dizziness.

What is a Ferritin Test and How is it Done?

The ferritin test is done by taking a blood sample and measures iron stores. In certain cases, fasting may be required before the test. During the test, blood is taken from your arm with a needle and sent to the laboratory. Test results are usually available within a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions About Low Ferritin

Is Low Ferritin a Sign of Cancer?

Low ferritin alone is not a sign of cancer; however, low ferritin levels can be seen in some types of cancer. It is important to be under medical supervision at this stage.

Does Low Ferritin Cause Hair Loss?

Yes, low ferritin can cause hair loss.

What Ferritin Level Is Dangerous?

Ferritin levels above 1000 ng/mL or below 20 mg/nL can be dangerous.

How to Increase Ferritin?

Consuming iron-rich foods and taking iron supplements with a doctor’s approval can increase ferritin.

How to Increase Ferritin Fastest?

Taking iron supplements and eating healthy, iron-rich foods can quickly increase ferritin.

Why Do Iron Stores in the Body Deplete?

Inadequate iron intake, chronic blood loss, or iron absorption disorders may cause depletion of iron stores.

What Should Ferritin Level Be in a Healthy Woman?

In a healthy woman, ferritin levels should be between 11-307 ng/mL.

What is the Difference Between Iron and Ferritin?

Iron is the element in the blood; ferritin is the protein where iron is stored.

Abbas Jahangir

I am a researcher and writer with a background in food and nutritional science. I am the founder of Foodstrend.com, our reputable online platform offering scientifically-backed articles on health, food, nutrition, kitchen tips, recipes, diet, and fitness. With a commitment to providing accurate and reliable information, we strive to empower our readers to make informed decisions about their health and lifestyle choices. Join us on Foodstrend.com's journey toward a healthier and happier lifestyle.

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