The American Society of Hematology announced new standards for categorizing ferritin levels, setting a higher threshold for diagnosing iron deficiency. The issue stated that an adult should have a ferritin level above 30 ng/mL as opposed to the familiar 15 ng/mL. It also stated that individuals who have heavy periods or are pregnant should have a ferritin level above 50 ng/mL.
Ferritin is what stores iron, and iron is used to make hemoglobin which is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body.
Iron deficiency can have negative effects on the brain, immune system, muscles, skin, hair and nails. Some symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, hair loss, weakness and difficulty concentrating…