Iron Panel
What is Ferritin? Optimal Ranges & Function
Normal Range:12-300 ng/mL
Optimal Range:50-150 ng/mL
What is Ferritin?
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your cells and releases it when your body needs it. It's the most accurate indicator of your body's total iron stores.
Why Ferritin Matters
Optimal ferritin levels are crucial for energy production, immune function, and cognitive performance. Both low and high levels can indicate serious health issues that need attention.
Symptoms of Low Ferritin
- Fatigue and weakness
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
- Hair loss
- Brittle nails
- Restless leg syndrome
- Shortness of breath
Symptoms of High Ferritin
- Joint pain
- Abdominal pain
- Unexplained fatigue
- Skin discoloration
- Heart palpitations
Reference Ranges
12 ng/mL300 ng/mL
50
150
Standard Lab Range
BioStack Optimal
| Range Type | Minimum | Maximum | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal Range | 12 | 300 | ng/mL |
| Optimal Range | 50 | 150 | ng/mL |
Related Biomarkers
When to Request Additional Tests
If Your Ferritin is High
When Ferritin is elevated, consider testing the following markers to get a more complete picture:
- CRP — Rule out inflammation as cause
- Serum Iron — Confirm iron overload vs inflammation
If Your Ferritin is Low
When Ferritin is below optimal, these additional tests can help identify the underlying cause:
- Serum Iron — Confirm true iron deficiency
- Hemoglobin — Check for resulting anemia