Iron and Ferritin Blood Test
Feb 3, 2026
Iron and Ferritin Blood Test
An iron and ferritin blood test measures your iron levels and iron stores—detecting iron deficiency, the world's most common nutritional deficiency affecting approximately 25% of women of reproductive age in the UK. Symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and hair loss are often caused by low iron that's easily diagnosed and treated.
At Blood Test London, iron testing costs from £245 with results in 2-3 days.
What Does an Iron Test Measure?
Marker | What It Shows | Optimal Range |
|---|---|---|
Ferritin | Iron stores | 50-200 μg/L (women), 50-300 (men) |
Serum Iron | Iron in blood | 10-30 μmol/L |
TIBC | Iron-binding capacity | 45-72 μmol/L |
Transferrin Saturation | How much iron is being transported | 20-50% |
Why Ferritin Is Most Important
Ferritin reflects your iron stores—the reserves your body can draw from. You can have normal haemoglobin but depleted stores, causing symptoms.
NHS "normal" ferritin: Above 15 μg/L
Optimal for wellbeing: 50-100 μg/L or higher
Signs of Iron Deficiency
Classic Symptoms
Extreme fatigue and weakness
Shortness of breath
Pale skin
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Cold hands and feet
Brittle nails
Hair loss
Restless leg syndrome
Often Missed Symptoms
Poor concentration ("brain fog")
Unusual cravings (ice, dirt—pica)
Frequent infections
Anxiety and depression
Exercise intolerance
Who's Most at Risk?
Women with heavy periods
Pregnant women
Vegetarians and vegans
Endurance athletes
Those with digestive conditions (coeliac, Crohn's)
Regular blood donors
Understanding Your Results
Iron Deficiency Stages
Stage | Ferritin | Haemoglobin | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|---|
Depleted stores | Low (<30) | Normal | Fatigue, cold |
Iron deficiency | Very low (<15) | Normal/low | Multiple symptoms |
Iron deficiency anaemia | Very low | Low | Severe symptoms |
The "Normal" Trap
Many people are told their iron is "normal" when ferritin is 20-30 μg/L. While technically in range, this may be suboptimal, especially if symptomatic.
How to Improve Iron Levels
Dietary Iron Sources
Heme iron (best absorbed):
Red meat
Liver and organ meats
Shellfish
Poultry
Non-heme iron (plant sources):
Spinach and leafy greens
Legumes and lentils
Fortified cereals
Tofu and tempeh
Absorption Tips
Eat with vitamin C (citrus, peppers) to increase absorption
Avoid tea and coffee with meals (tannins block absorption)
Cook in cast iron pans to add iron to food
Supplementation
Ferritin Level | Action |
|---|---|
50+ | Maintain through diet |
30-50 | Consider gentle supplement |
Below 30 | Supplement recommended |
Below 15 | Higher dose, consider iron infusion |
Common supplements: Ferrous sulphate, ferrous fumarate, or gentler options like iron bisglycinate.
Book Your Iron Test
Price: From £245
Results: 2-3 days
Doctor review: A doctor always reviews every result
Fasting required: Morning sample preferred, avoid supplements 24 hours before
FAQ
What ferritin level do I need to feel better?
Most people feel best with ferritin above 50-70 μg/L. Some need even higher.
How long does it take to improve iron levels?
Typically 3-6 months with supplementation, depending on how depleted you are.
Why is my iron low even though I eat red meat?
Absorption issues, heavy periods, or underlying conditions may be factors. Testing helps identify the cause.
Are iron supplements safe?
Yes when needed, but excessive iron can be harmful. Always test before supplementing long-term.
Blood Test London by The Wellness. Iron testing from £245, results in 2-3 days.