Ferritin Results & Next Steps

[K2D2]

I had my ferritin tested and the results were 47 ng/mL. According to the test standard, this is within the normal range, but from forum comments I understand that anything under 100 is problematic for RLS. My question now is what next? Do I start to supplement on my own? If so, what dosage and frequency? Is there a specific brand or type of iron I need to use? Or, do I need to get something with a doctor’s prescription? I’m very hopeful that addressing this iron deficiency will finally be the key to alleviate my RLS, and thank forum members for any help or guidance you can provide.

[SueJohnson]

If your ferritin is less than 75 as yours is then take 325 mg of ferrous sulfate with 100 mg of vitamin C or some orange juice since that helps its absorption. Take it every other day at least 1 hour before a meal or coffee and at least 2 hours after a meal or coffee since iron is absorbed better on an empty stomach. If you have problems with constipation switch to iron bisglycinate If your ferritin is between 75 and 100 or if your transferrin saturation is below 20, you probably need an iron infusion since iron isn't absorbed as well above 75. If you take magnesium take it at least 2 hours apart since it interferes with its absorption. It takes several months for the iron tablets or iron infusion to slowly raise your ferritin. Ask for a new blood test after 3 months.

[K2D2 in reply to SueJohnson]

Thank you very much. Fingers crossed that this is going to help.

[K2D2 in reply to K2D2]

Have you had any experience purchasing ferrous sulfate on Amazon? Is there a specific brand you recommend for quality and effectiveness?

[SueJohnson in reply to K2D2]

Yes you can get it on Amazon or at any drug store.

[Moonwalker1967 in reply to SueJohnson]

Hi Sue, I have iron bisglycinate, take 14 mg with vitamin c and as advised above. Ferritin is 75. Do I need to take more and should I take it every other day. I have to point out I don't eat meat. Thanks in advance.

[SueJohnson in reply to Moonwalker1967]

Yes take it every other day. You are on the fence on needing an iron infusion, but if you don't want that, then just keep taking the iron. As to whether to take more, that is a good question since it is not as well absorbed above 75. You might want to post that question.

[WideBody]

From experience, I tried a bunch of iron before my Doctor prescribed Liquid Ferrous Sulfate. It is available without a prescription. It’s behind the counter at the pharmacy and I have to ask. It is very inexpensive, around $10 a month.

Since then I have had good luck with ferrous bisglysinate and continue to use that today.

[DicCarlson]

I had raging RLS with a Ferritin level of 49 (%sat 25). Even just taking Blackstrap Molasses (it contains iron) one night (I had read it was a home remedy) - it totally cut into my RLS. I switched to Ferrous Bisglycinate Chelate and the severe RLS abated almost instantaneously. Ferritin went to 105 within 3 months with daily, then 3xweek supplementation.