Iron is one of the most vital nutrients in the body, yet it’s often overlooked, until something goes wrong. Whether you’re struggling with chronic fatigue, brain fog, or a general sense of feeling unwell, low iron or ferritin levels might be at the root. At MediThrive Personalized Wellness, we focus on uncovering and treating the underlying causes of these symptoms since iron deficiency is one of the most common (and treatable) issues we see.
What Is Iron and Why Is It Important?
Iron is a mineral that plays a central role in the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. Without enough iron, your body can’t produce the red blood cells it needs, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to your tissues and organs.
Ferritin, on the other hand, is a protein that stores iron in your body and releases it when needed. Think of it as your iron “savings account.” Ferritin levels give us a clearer picture of your overall iron status, even before anemia develops.
Symptoms and Consequences of Iron Deficiency
Iron deficiency can sneak up on you with subtle symptoms that are easy to brush off. These can include:
- Persistent fatigue or weakness
- Pale skin or dark circles under the eyes
- Headaches or dizziness
- Cold hands and feet
- Shortness of breath during mild exertion
- Hair thinning or hair loss
- Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
If left untreated, iron deficiency can lead to more serious issues like anemia, heart problems, complications in pregnancy, and weakened immune function.
Causes of Iron Deficiency
Iron deficiency can stem from several different causes, including:
- Inadequate dietary intake (especially in vegetarians and vegans)
- Poor iron absorption due to gut issues (like celiac disease or IBD)
- Blood loss (from menstruation, ulcers, or internal bleeding)
- Increased demand during periods of growth, pregnancy, or intense physical activity
It’s not always just about what you’re eating. It’s about how your body absorbs and uses iron is just as critical.
Testing and What to Do
If you suspect low iron may be affecting your health, the first step is testing. At MediThrive Wellness, we offer comprehensive blood testing that includes serum iron, ferritin, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), and a full blood count to assess hemoglobin levels. These markers provide a full picture of your iron status and help us determine both the severity and the underlying cause of any deficiency.
Depending on your results, we may recommend increasing dietary iron, starting an oral iron supplement, or iron infusions for quicker replenishment. Most importantly, we look at the whole picture to identify and address the root cause, so your iron levels stay healthy long-term.
Your Health Starts Here
If you’ve been feeling off, tired, or not quite yourself, don’t ignore the signs. Iron and ferritin testing is a simple, yet powerful step toward understanding your body and getting back to feeling your best. At MediThrive Personalized Wellness, we take a personalized approach to your health, offering science-backed diagnostics and tailored treatment plans to help you thrive.
Schedule your lab checkup with our team today by calling 980-580-6070. Your energy, focus, and well-being are too important to leave to chance.