What's the difference between ferritin and iron tests?

Serum iron shows how much iron is circulating in your blood at that moment. Ferritin shows your total iron stores - it's like checking your bank account balance vs. your daily wallet cash.

Can ferritin be too high?

Yes. Ferritin above 300-400 ng/mL may indicate hemochromatosis (genetic iron overload), liver disease, or inflammation. High ferritin requires investigation.

Why is my ferritin low even though I eat meat?

Heavy periods, digestive issues (reducing absorption), intense exercise, frequent blood donation, or conditions like celiac disease can deplete iron faster than you can replace it.

How long does it take to raise ferritin?

With proper supplementation, it typically takes 3-6 months to significantly raise ferritin levels. Retest every 3 months while supplementing.

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Ferritin Blood Test - Iron Storage Test

Name: Ferritin Blood Test - Iron Storage Test
Brand: Justlabs
SKU: 0000457
Price: 9 USD
Availability: InStock

Ferritin

Ferritin is the best indicator of your body's iron stores. Low ferritin is one of the most common causes of fatigue, especially in women.

Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your cells, releasing it when needed. Unlike serum iron (which fluctuates throughout the day), ferritin provides a stable measure of your total body iron stores.

Iron is essential for: • Carrying oxygen in your blood • Energy production in cells • Brain function and concentration • Healthy hair, skin, and nails • Immune system function

Both low and high ferritin can cause problems, making this test valuable for anyone with fatigue or unexplained symptoms.

Price

Results

1-2 days

Lab Network

Quest

Fasting

Not Required

What's Measured

Ferritin

What This Test Measures

This test measures ferritin protein in your blood, reflecting total body iron stores. Optimal ferritin is typically 50-150 ng/mL for women and 75-150 ng/mL for men. Below 30 ng/mL often causes symptoms even if technically "normal." High levels (>300) may indicate iron overload or inflammation.

Who Should Consider This Test

Women (especially those with heavy periods), vegetarians/vegans, athletes, anyone with fatigue, hair loss, restless legs, difficulty concentrating, or frequent infections. Also important for monitoring iron supplementation or suspected hemochromatosis.

Health Insights

Conditions Screened

Iron deficiencyIron deficiency anemiaHemochromatosis (iron overload)InflammationChronic disease anemia

Related Symptoms

FatigueHair lossPale skinShortness of breathCold hands and feetBrittle nailsRestless legsBrain fogWeakness

When to Get Tested

Test anytime - no fasting required. For women, test mid-cycle if possible (ferritin may be lower right after menstruation). Test before starting iron supplements to establish baseline.

Understanding Your Results

Low ferritin (<30 ng/mL) strongly suggests iron deficiency and often causes symptoms. Optimal: 50-150 ng/mL. High ferritin (>300) may indicate iron overload, inflammation, or liver issues. Note: "normal" lab ranges often start too low - many people feel better with ferritin above 50.

What to Expect

After placing your order, you'll receive an email from Rupa Health (our lab order partner) within 24 business hours to sign a consent form and schedule your blood draw at a Quest Diagnostics location.

The blood draw typically takes just a few minutes. Results are usually available within 1-2 business days and will appear in your secure Justlabs dashboard.

Our results include reference ranges and easy-to-understand indicators showing whether your values are within normal limits.