Ferritin levels are important for everyone. Man or woman, an avid athlete or a couch potato. When your ferritin levels are too low, you feel tired and exhausted, which can be a problem for anyone, regardless of your physical condition.
What is ferritin and why is it important?
Ferritin is a type of protein that binds to iron. In fact, most iron stored in the body is bound to ferritin, so this is a good value to check your iron levels. Iron is an important mineral that is a part of hemoglobin, which is found in all red blood cells in the body. Hemoglobin ensures that all muscles and other organs are supplied with enough oxygen. It also helps convert carbohydrates and fat into energy. Maintaining optimal iron levels is therefore important for athletes and non-athletes alike.
Why does low ferritin make you tired?
If you're iron deficient, you're also likely to have low levels of red blood cells and hemoglobin. As a result, your blood can carry less oxygen to your muscles and brain, which can negatively affect your performance and overall health. Low red blood cell levels can prevent your body from using energy efficiently during exercise or normal physical activities. Symptoms of iron deficiency can include frequent injuries, a weakened immune system, chronic fatigue, and a high heart rate during physical activities. If you are an athlete who wants to keep his/her body energized during athletic activities, it is important to keep your iron levels up so you don't get tired too quickly. Even if you are not an athlete, iron deficiency can make you feel tired and weak, as it can result in a reduced level of concentration.
If you want to test your ferritin level, click here.
