Energy and nutrients

Ferritin

Updated 2026-10-14Written for education by the Zenlo Health editorial teamHow we review
Quick answerFerritin is a protein that stores iron, so a ferritin test shows how much iron your body holds in reserve. Low ferritin is the earliest sign of iron deficiency, and high ferritin can reflect iron overload or inflammation.
Fasting and prepFasting overnight is often suggested, since iron markers swing with meals and supplements. Follow your order.
Typical turnaroundUsually 1 to 2 days.
Also callediron stores test, ferritin test

What it measures

You can feel tired with low ferritin before hemoglobin drops. Many clinicians treat levels under about 30 ng/mL as low, though lab ranges vary. Ferritin also rises with inflammation, liver disease, and some infections, so a high value needs context.

Who should consider it

  • People with heavy periods, pregnancy, or frequent blood donation
  • Endurance athletes and people on vegetarian diets
  • Adults with unexplained fatigue, hair shedding, or restless legs

How to read your result

  • Lab ranges are wide and differ for men and women.
  • Low ferritin warrants finding the cause, not only supplements.
  • High ferritin plus high iron saturation can point to hemochromatosis, which needs a clinician.

Reference ranges differ between labs. Use the range printed on your own report.

What to do next

A CBC and iron panel give a fuller picture.

Where to order Ferritin

These sellers include an independent physician order. You pay online and visit a partner lab. Availability, price, and lab network vary, so confirm at checkout.

Private MD Labs

Online lab seller
  • Says 4,500+ Quest and Labcorp locations
  • Every order reviewed by a physician. Says you pay $1 to start and the rest after results.
  • Secure online portal with plain-English explanations. Says many results arrive overnight.
Visit site Read review

HealthLabs

Online lab seller
  • Says 4,500+ labs, including Quest and Labcorp
  • Online or by phone. No doctor referral or insurance needed.
  • Secure HealthLabs account. Says 1 to 3 business days.
Visit site Read review

Walk-In Lab

Online lab seller
  • Lab network not named on its homepage
  • Online, no insurance or doctor order needed. Shows a $6 physician fee per order on popular tests.
  • Online account. Turnaround not stated on its homepage.
Visit site Read review

Quest Health

Lab-run
  • Quest, 2,000+ locations
  • Buy online and book a Quest appointment. An independent provider is involved.
  • Online as soon as ready, with an email alert. Provider discussion included at no extra cost.
Visit site Read review

Seller details come from each seller's own site and can change. Confirm price, lab location, and state availability at checkout.

Questions people ask

What ferritin level is too low?

Many clinicians use under 30 ng/mL as a working cutoff for iron deficiency, but it depends on your lab and your symptoms.

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Red cells, white cells, hemoglobin, and platelets.

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Checks B12 for fatigue, tingling, and anemia questions.

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