Iron studies usually include serum iron, ferritin (iron stores) and transferrin saturation. A full blood count can assess the number of red cells and their iron-containing haemoglobin. These tests can be organised as a basic iron analysis.

However, there are certain circumstances which require more comprehensive information. For example if your ferritin is high due to inflammation, this is a sign of underlying infection or a chronic inflammatory process. In other cases, your ferritin may be persistently low, anaemia is not resolving with iron supplements, or your iron levels are not rising. There may be underlying issues with iron absorption. Or, the anaemia may not be iron related and could be due to deficiency in B12, folate or co-factors such as copper or zinc.

A deeper understanding of the root cause allows your Nutritionist to tailor your nutrition and supplement plan for a targeted approach.

Phlebotomy can be carried out at our Dublin clinic or locations around the country. Please enquire with our team. Phlebotomy carries an additional charge.

This test measures:

• Full blood count
• Iron in whole blood
• Transferrin, transferrin saturation and transferrin receptor
• Hepcidin – an important signalling molecule for iron absorption
• CRP to assess inflammation
• Co-factors copper, zinc and caeruloplasmin
• Optional: methylmalonic acid (urine) to accurately assess Vitamin B12 activity
• Optional: serum folate and B12 levels if not already measured

Works well with:

• Genetic testing for haemochromatosis or iron overload (coming soon)

Donald had a low red cell count and was experiencing fatigue. He understood from his GP and regular blood tests that his iron levels were high and wanted advice on how to manage this with diet.

With further investigation, it was apparent that Donald did not have high levels of iron absorption but actually anaemia of chronic inflammation. His ferritin levels were very high as a result, but his markers of iron absorption and co-factors were normal. Genetic testing ruled out haemochromatosis to be thorough. Donald was advised to avoid iron supplementation but to continue with iron in his diet due to his anaemia and fatigue.

Donald then underwent microbiome testing to assess any source of chronic inflammation. An ongoing chronic Candida overgrowth was identified along with additional dysbiosis. He continues to work on his gut health to address chronic inflammation which is causing his high ferritin and anaemia.

Key findings:

• Very high levels of ferritin
• Normal levels of absorption and co-factors
• Low red cells – anaemia of chronic inflammation