Why Isn't Ferritin Rising? Pharmacist Identifies 3 Mistakes and the Best Form of Iron

Persistent fatigue, lack of energy, dizziness, hair loss, pale skin, restless legs, or shortness of breath when climbing stairs are often attributed to a busy lifestyle, stress, or insufficient sleep. However, these symptoms can warn of a common blood disorder: iron deficiency anemia.

Virgilija Bečelytė, a pharmacist at the "Camelia" pharmacy chain, explains the connection between this condition and blood levels of hemoglobin and ferritin. She highlights common mistakes that prevent maintaining normal levels and what is crucial for long-term results.

Bečelytė points out that many people fail to absorb iron effectively due to incorrect timing of intake or combining it with certain foods. She emphasizes that iron deficiency is not just about low hemoglobin but also critically low ferritin, which stores iron in the body. "Ferritin is the body's iron reserve. If it is low, it means the body has no iron reserves, and the problem will only worsen," she states.

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Ferritin is the body's iron reserve. If it is low, it means the body has no iron reserves, and the problem will only worsen.

The pharmacist recommends taking iron supplements on an empty stomach, ideally an hour before or two hours after meals, to maximize absorption. She also advises against consuming iron with dairy products, coffee, or tea, as these can inhibit absorption. For those who experience stomach upset, taking iron with a small amount of food is acceptable, but avoiding the aforementioned inhibitors remains key.

Regarding the best form of iron, Bečelytė suggests ferrous bisglycinate. "This form is well-tolerated by the stomach and intestines, and its absorption is significantly higher compared to other forms," she explains. She also notes that vitamin C can enhance iron absorption, so consuming iron-rich foods or supplements with vitamin C sources like citrus fruits or bell peppers is beneficial.

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This form is well-tolerated by the stomach and intestines, and its absorption is significantly higher compared to other forms.