ferritin

[Squirmy69]

hi, bloods back. My ferritin is 17. Even though I asked trans ferritin saturation not done. I think enough evidence with ferritin as it is to start taking iron tablets though. Should I push for a Trans ferritin saturation test? What value would it add? Thanks in advance

[SueJohnson]

With your ferritin that low you need an iron infusion. If your doctor won't prescribe one you can also get one privately by paying for it, but it costs around £800.

While you are waiting for an iron infusion:

If you take blood thinners, iron binds with blood thinners, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the blood thinners and of the iron so check with your doctor. Otherwise take two tablets of 325 mg of ferrous sulfate or 75 mg to 100 mg of iron bisglycinate with 100 mg of vitamin C or some orange juice since that helps its absorption. Also take Lactobacillus plantarum 299v as it also helps its absorption. Ferrous sulfate is fine for most people, but if you have problems with constipation, iron bisglycinate is better.

Take it every other day as more is absorbed that way preferably at night at least 1 hour before a meal or coffee or tea and at least 2 hours after a meal or coffee or tea since iron is absorbed better on an empty stomach and the tannins in coffee and tea limit absorption. If your transferrin saturation is below 20, you may need an iron infusion. If you take magnesium, calcium or zinc even in a multivitamin, take them at least 2 hours apart since they interfere with the absorption of iron. Also antacids interfere with its absorption so should be taken at least 4 hours before the iron or at least 2 hours after. Don't take your iron tablets before or after exercise since inflammation peaks after a workout. Don't take tumeric as it can interfere with the absorption of iron. If you take thyroid medicine don't take it within 4 hours. 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 if you are taking iron tablets or after 8 weeks if you have an iron infusion. Stop taking any iron supplements including in a multivitamin 48 hours before the test, avoid a heavy meat meal the night before and fast after midnight and have your test in the morning before 9 am if possible.

At this point I wouldn't bother pushing for a TSAT (trans ferritin saturation) test as if it is below 20 it would just say you need an iron infusion and if it is very unlikely to be over 45.

[DicCarlson]

That is a painfully low ferritin level. Sue's advice is great. More info on iron tests and levels here...

bloodtestsresults.com/iron-...