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Welcome to part one of my “Know Your Numbers” series, where I dive into a different lab testing every week to help you better understand your labwork. This week we’re talking all about iron. Why it matters, how to know if you’re deficient, and what to do about it.

Let’s get into it! 👏

✍️🔍a key fact about iron deficiency you should know:

Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies, and it can have a major impact on your health, especially if you menstruate, are postpartum, donate blood regularly, or have had a history of low iron.

**WHY TESTING FOR IRON DEFICIENCY IS SO IMPORTANT:**
Iron plays a vital role in energy, mood, hormonal health, and hair health!
**Common symptoms of deficiency include:**
➡️Fatigue and low energy
➡️Brain fog
➡️Anxiety and low mood
➡️Insomnia or restless sleep
➡️Hair thinning or hair loss
➡️Dizziness or headaches

Many people are told their iron is "normal" simply because their hemoglobin is in range, but that doesn’t necessarily mean your iron is good!

🏆The Best Tests to Check for Iron Deficiency:

For a complete and accurate picture of your iron status, make sure these three tests are included in your lab work:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Helps detect anemia but does not confirm iron status on its own.
This is the last thing to change as your iron drops!

2. Iron Panel

Tell us more about your iron stores even if you have inflammation in your body. Inflammation skews the ferritin results!

3. Ferritin

Iron storage.
Most people feel best when ferritin is above 50 ng/mL.

Important note: Inflammation (from conditions like Hashimoto’s, PCOS, arthritis, or even a common cold) can cause ferritin to appear normal, even when iron is low. That’s why we want the iron panel as well as the ferritin!

🔬Why can’t I just take iron?

Too much iron can cause harm, and too little can cause harm. If you’re deficient, we want to supplement and then re-test to ensure it worked! If we don’t test we don’t know if you needed it and/or if your treatment worked!

Remember: Some people may need longer-term supplementation, especially those with heavy periods. But we really want to know your numbers!

🔍Who Should Test Annually?

I recommend yearly iron testing if you:

Menstruate regularly
Have heavy periods (losing >80 mL per cycle)
Are postpartum or breastfeeding
Donate blood
Have a history of low iron or anemia

Remember: Iron levels can drop fast after just a few heavy cycles, and catching it early makes treatment easier and more effective.

👩🏻‍⚕️Final thoughts on iron and next steps:

As a healthcare provider, I can order these tests and help you interpret them. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you suspect iron deficiency or haven’t had your iron checked in a while.

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