Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body. It helps the body to regulate the use of iron, which is essential for the production of red blood cells and the maintenance of good health.
Low ferritin levels can lead to anemia, which can cause fatigue and weakness. But what causes low ferritin levels? This article investigates the factors that contribute to low ferritin levels.
1. Iron-deficient Diet
The most common cause of low ferritin levels is a lack of iron in the diet. The body needs iron to produce enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the tissues.
If there is not enough iron in the diet, the body cannot produce enough red blood cells, and anemia can develop.
The body can absorb two types of iron from food: heme iron and non-heme iron. Heme iron is found in animal sources, such as meat and seafood, and is more easily absorbed by the body.
Non-heme iron is found in plant sources, such as beans, lentils, spinach, and fortified cereals, and is less easily absorbed by the body.
To maintain healthy ferritin levels, it is important to consume a balanced diet that includes both heme and non-heme sources of iron.
Vegetarians and vegans may need to be extra careful to ensure they are consuming enough iron-rich foods to prevent low ferritin levels.
2. Blood Loss
Blood loss is another common cause of low ferritin levels. Women who experience heavy menstrual periods are at particularly high risk of iron deficiency anemia due to blood loss.
Other causes of blood loss include gastrointestinal bleeding, surgery, and injury.
If you experience blood loss, it is important to seek medical attention to identify the underlying cause and prevent further complications such as anemia.
3. Pregnancy
Pregnancy can increase the risk of low ferritin levels due to the increased demand for iron to support fetal growth and development. The iron need during pregnancy doubles due to the increased blood volume, the fetus, and the placental demands.
Pregnant women should have regular blood tests to monitor ferritin levels and may need to take iron supplements to maintain adequate levels.
4. Malabsorption
Malabsorption is a condition that affects the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food. It can be caused by a range of conditions, including celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and some types of surgery.
People with malabsorption may have difficulty absorbing enough iron to maintain healthy ferritin levels.
If you have been diagnosed with a malabsorption disorder, it is essential to seek medical advice on how to manage your condition and prevent further complications like low ferritin levels.
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5. Chronic Diseases
Some chronic diseases can cause low ferritin levels. These include inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, and some types of cancer.
Chronic inflammation can lead to anemia because the body’s iron storage is depleted.
If you have a chronic condition, it is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage your condition and prevent further complications like low ferritin levels.
6. Genetic Factors
Low ferritin levels can also be due to genetic factors. Some people are born with a genetic predisposition to low iron levels, making them more susceptible to developing anemia.
If you have a family history of low ferritin levels or anemia, it is advisable to talk to your healthcare provider about getting tested for possible genetic causes.
7. Medications
Some medications can affect the body’s ability to absorb iron, leading to low ferritin levels. Examples of medications that can cause low ferritin levels include proton-pump inhibitors (used to treat ulcers), antacids, and aspirin.
If you think your medication might be causing low ferritin levels, talk to your healthcare provider about alternative options or adjusting the dosage to correct this.
8. Alcohol Abuse
Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the intestines, making it harder for the body to absorb iron from food. Over time, this can lead to low ferritin levels and anemia.
If you are struggling with alcohol abuse, it is essential to seek help to overcome this condition and prevent further complications like low ferritin levels.
9. Exercise
Although exercise can be beneficial to your health, it can have a negative impact on ferritin levels.
Intense exercise can cause breakdowns of red blood cells and ferritin stores, which can lead to iron-deficient anemia when iron intake is not sufficient.
If you are an athlete or exercise regularly, make sure to eat a balanced diet that includes sources of dietary iron, such as meat, seafood, nuts, and beans, to avoid low ferritin levels.
10. Age
As we age, our bodies become less efficient at absorbing and storing nutrients, including iron. This can lead to lower ferritin levels and anemia.
If you are over 50 years of age, make sure to regularly monitor your ferritin levels and speak with your healthcare provider if you notice any signs of anemia or fatigue.
Final Thoughts
Low ferritin levels can result in a range of health complications, including anemia and fatigue. It is important to regularly monitor your ferritin levels and get tested if you suspect you may be at risk of developing low levels.
Fortunately, many of the causes of low ferritin levels are preventable or treatable, whether it’s through a balanced diet, lifestyle changes, or medication adjustments.
