Overview
While Ferritin stores iron, it is also an "acute phase reactant." High levels often indicate active systemic inflammation or liver stress rather than iron overload. Optimal levels are lower than the standard lab range.
Health Goals Impacted 1
This item supports, tracks, or is required for the following health goals:
Reveals hidden inflammation.
If your Ferritin is high (> 200-300 ng/mL) but you don't have hemochromatosis genes, you likely have systemic inflammation. The body sequesters iron during inflammation to keep it away from pathogens.
Iron is a pro-oxidant; it feeds bacteria and generates free radicals. Therefore, unexplained high Ferritin is often a sign of a hidden infection or metabolic fire that needs to be extinguished.