Is my Ferritin normal?
Free blood test checker · Standard + longevity-optimal ranges
What is a normal Ferritin level?
Ferritin is the best single marker of your body's iron stores. Low ferritin is the earliest indicator of iron deficiency — it drops before hemoglobin and serum iron fall. Normal range is 20-300 ng/mL, but optimal is 30-200 ng/mL. Ferritin is also an acute-phase reactant, meaning it rises with inflammation, infection, or liver disease.
| Range | Values |
|---|---|
| Standard Reference | 20–300 ng/mL |
| Optimal | 30–200 ng/mL |
| Longevity Optimal | 30-200 ng/mL |
| High Risk | > 500 ng/mL |
| Low Risk | < 10 ng/mL |
What causes abnormal Ferritin levels?
Low ferritin is caused by iron deficiency from inadequate dietary intake, blood loss (heavy periods, GI bleeding), poor absorption (celiac disease, IBD), and increased demand (pregnancy, rapid growth). High ferritin is caused by hereditary hemochromatosis, liver disease, chronic inflammation, infection, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and excess iron supplementation.
When should you see a doctor?
See your doctor if ferritin is below 30 ng/mL (iron depletion, even if hemoglobin is still normal), above 300 ng/mL (men) or 200 ng/mL (women) without obvious inflammation, or if you have symptoms like extreme fatigue, hair loss, restless legs, or unexplained joint pain.
Ferritin and longevity
Ferritin occupies a unique dual role in longevity medicine: it is both the earliest indicator of iron deficiency and a marker of systemic inflammation and metabolic stress. In the longevity context, the optimal ferritin range is narrow — too low (below 30 ng/mL) impairs mitochondrial function and oxygen delivery, while too high (above 200-300 ng/mL) may indicate iron overload or chronic inflammation, both of which generate oxidative stress that accelerates cellular aging. Ferritin is also an acute-phase reactant that rises during any inflammatory state, making it essential to interpret alongside CRP and transferrin saturation. Therapeutic phlebotomy (blood donation) is the primary treatment for iron overload and has been associated with improved insulin sensitivity in some studies.
Where to get a Ferritin test
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Related biomarkers
These biomarkers are often tested alongside Ferritin for a more complete picture.
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal ferritin level?
Can ferritin be high even if I'm not iron overloaded?
How do I raise low ferritin?
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Sources: Reference ranges based on AHA/ACC, ADA, and AACE clinical guidelines. Biological variation data from Ricos/Westgard database. Longevity-optimal ranges reflect targets used by preventive and functional medicine practitioners.
Last reviewed: April 2026. This tool provides general health information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific results.