BiomarkersFerritin

Blood & iron

Ferritin

Your stored iron

On your report it may say: Serum ferritin

Ferritin is the protein that stores iron, and its blood level is the best routine measure of your iron reserves. Stores often run down before hemoglobin drops, so low ferritin is an early warning.

Updated 2026-10-26

Typical ranges · ng/mL

Women

Low below 15
Low stores 15–30
In range 30–150
High 150+

Men

Low below 30
In range 30–400
High 400+

µg/L is the same number

Infection and inflammation raise ferritin, so a 'normal' result during illness can hide low iron.

Ranges vary by lab, age and sex. The range printed on your report applies.

If it's low

Your iron reserves are running low, even if hemoglobin is still normal.

Common causes

  • Heavy periods
  • Vegetarian diet with low iron absorption
  • Pregnancy
  • Blood donation
  • Gut blood loss or absorption problems

What you might notice

  • Tiredness
  • Hair shedding
  • Restless legs
  • Brittle nails
  • Feeling cold

If it's high

High ferritin can mean inflammation, liver strain or iron overload. Don't take iron if your ferritin is high.

Common causes

  • Inflammation or infection
  • Fatty liver or alcohol
  • Iron overload conditions
  • Iron supplements without need

What you might notice

  • Often none
  • Joint pain or fatigue with iron overload

Testing

Who should test
Women with periods, pregnant women, vegetarians, regular blood donors, and anyone tired or losing hair.
How to prepare
Morning, fasting test is preferred; avoid testing during an infection.
When to retest
8–12 weeks after starting iron.

What can help

Food sources

Dark leafy greensDal and rajmaJaggery and datesSesame seedsRed meat and eggs

See a doctor if ferritin is very low, or high, or if you have unexplained blood loss.

Common questions

Why is my ferritin low when my hemoglobin is normal?

Stores empty first; anaemia comes later.

Can ferritin be too high from supplements?

Yes, which is why iron should only be taken when needed.

Explore further

Sources

  1. MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine): Ferritin blood test
  2. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Iron fact sheet for health professionals

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For general education only, not medical advice. Ranges shown are typical for adults; the range printed on your lab report applies. Talk to a qualified doctor about your results.