How much ferrous sulphate should I take to get my iron levels up to optimum levels?

[stuartwwhouse]

My ferritin blood result is 110

( range 50-300)

I have bought activis 200mg (65mg ferrous iron)

Guidance says 1 tablet to prevent anaemia and 2-3 daily for treatment of anaemia

But I just want to bring myself up to optimum levels

[Hidden]

110 is actually thought to be optimal (needs to be at least 70, and Isabella Wentz recommends 90-110). Higher isn't better in the case of ferritin, so I'd shoot for maintaining at that level and taking 1 tablet a day.

[helvella Administrator Thyroid UK in reply to Hidden]

Quite right that more isn't better. If ferritin is 110 without taking any supplements, I think I wouldn't take any iron supplements at all.

Have a look at haemochromatosis for what excess iron can do to you. (I know this is a genetic disorder but the excess iron is the issue.)

Rod

[Hidden in reply to helvella]

That's a good point, Rod. I saw the "prevent" bit and went along with the dosage instructions for maintenance but on second thoughts... Plus supplementing iron can lead to constipation - who wants that if they don't need it?

[stuartwwhouse in reply to helvella]

Thanks , an overdose has just been prevented !