Ferritin is a protein found in cells that stores and releases iron. It plays a vital role in maintaining iron levels in the body, as it stores iron so that it can be used when needed.

Low levels of ferritin can lead to iron deficiency, which can cause various health problems. In this article, we will explore the common causes of low ferritin in the body.

1. Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the primary causes of low ferritin levels in the body. It occurs when the body doesn’t have enough iron to produce adequate amounts of red blood cells.

Without enough iron, the body cannot produce sufficient hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the body’s tissues. As a result, low levels of ferritin are often observed in individuals with iron deficiency anemia.

2. Poor Dietary Iron Intake

Another common cause of low ferritin levels is a poor dietary intake of iron. Iron is mainly obtained through the diet, so if a person is not consuming enough iron-rich foods, it can lead to low ferritin levels.

Foods rich in iron include red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and leafy green vegetables. Vegetarians and vegans who do not consume animal products may be at a higher risk of developing low ferritin levels if they do not carefully plan their diets to include alternative plant-based iron sources.

3. Blood Loss

Blood loss can contribute to low ferritin levels, as iron is a component of red blood cells.

Chronic blood loss from conditions such as gastrointestinal bleeding, heavy menstrual periods, peptic ulcers, or colitis can deplete iron stores over time, resulting in low ferritin levels. It is crucial to identify and treat the underlying cause of the blood loss to prevent further complications.

4. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnant and breastfeeding women are at an increased risk of low ferritin levels due to the increased demand for iron during these periods. The body requires more iron to support fetal development and the production of breast milk.

If dietary iron intake is insufficient to meet the increased demand, it can lead to low ferritin levels.

5. Inflammatory Conditions

Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, and inflammatory bowel disease can contribute to low ferritin levels.

Inflammation can disrupt iron absorption and utilization in the body, leading to decreased ferritin levels. Managing the underlying inflammatory condition is important in improving ferritin levels.

6. Malabsorption Issues

Malabsorption issues can also cause low ferritin levels. Conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, including iron.

Even if an individual consumes an adequate amount of iron-rich foods, if they have malabsorption issues, the body may not effectively absorb the iron, leading to low ferritin levels.

7. Chronic Diseases

Some chronic diseases can contribute to low ferritin levels. Conditions like chronic heart failure, chronic liver disease, and chronic kidney disease can disrupt iron metabolism and lead to low ferritin levels.

Managing these underlying diseases and monitoring ferritin levels is important in preventing further complications.

8. Genetic Disorders

In rare cases, certain genetic disorders can be responsible for low ferritin levels. Disorders such as hereditary hemochromatosis or iron-refractory iron deficiency anemia can impair the body’s ability to maintain adequate ferritin levels.

Genetic testing and appropriate medical management are necessary in such cases.

9. Excessive Blood Donation

Regular blood donation can also contribute to low ferritin levels. When blood is donated, iron stores in the body are utilized to replenish the lost blood cells.

If donation frequency is high or if the body had low iron stores to begin with, it can result in low ferritin levels. However, these levels can usually recover with time, as the body replenishes its iron stores.

10. Medications

Some medications can interfere with iron absorption or utilization in the body, leading to low ferritin levels.

Examples include proton pump inhibitors used to treat acid reflux, certain types of antacids, and medications used to manage inflammatory conditions. If you suspect that a medication you are taking is affecting your ferritin levels, consult with your healthcare provider for advice.