





What is Ferritin?
Ferritin is a protein in cells that contains iron, it reflects the level of stored iron in the body. Having enough iron stores is important, a ferritin deficiency can deplete iron stores quickly.
Where is it found?
There are two types of iron found in food, haem and non-haem iron. Haem iron sources are found in foods such as meat, poultry, and seafood. Non-haem iron is found in lentils, eggs, fortified cereals, kale, spinach, and other plant foods. Haem iron is better absorbed than non-haem iron. Eating food high in vitamin C at the same time, can help absorb non-haem iron more effectively. Consuming tea, coffee, wine, or calcium rich foods when eating iron containing foods, may affect iron absorption.
Why is iron important?
Iron is important for haemoglobin synthesis (a protein that transports oxygen in red blood cells to body tissues), energy production; by converting food to ATP (adenosine triphosphate) for cellular energy, cell division, immune system, brain function, and regulating body temperature. The recommended intake of iron increases during pregnancy.
What are some of the causes of high and low ferritin levels?
A low ferritin blood result suggests your iron stores are low, indicating a deficiency. Iron deficiency can result from not eating enough iron rich foods, intestinal conditions that affect absorption, heavy bleeding e.g. excessive bleeding during menstrual cycle, internal bleeding. Low ferritin levels may lead to iron deficiency anaemia.
If your ferritin levels are high, it suggests that your body is storing too much iron, a condition called hemochromatosis. However, there are other causes for elevated ferritin levels.
What are some of the symptoms?
Symptoms of low ferritin levels may include dizziness, fatigue, weakness, headaches, pale skin. Symptoms of high ferritin levels may include stomach pain, heart palpitations, joint pain. High ferritin levels may also affect the pancreas and liver.
What blood markers are measured?
This test measures the levels of Ferritin in the blood.
Sample Type & Collection:
Finger prick, self-collection home testing kit. Full instructions included in testing kit Take your test first thing in the morning following an overnight fast. *samples must be posted back the same day using the free post address box.
Analysis
Samples are analysed by a fully accredited laboratory. Accreditation by ISO15189, is the International Standard for Medical Laboratories.
Test Details
Testing Age: Adults & Children
Referral: No referral required
Results: Approx 7 working days
Testing Kit Fee: €75
Ferritin HOME TEST
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Terms & Conditions
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SHIPPING RATES & REFUND POLICY
This product can be shipped to the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Please click the shipping rates button below for further details.