Hello! Let’s talk about iron!
Low iron is associated with a decrease in IQ level, restless legs, hair loss, low energy level, lack of concentration and possibly decreased athletic performance. We get iron through the food we eat. While it may be easier for carnivores to get enough iron, vegetarians can also get plenty of iron through a healthy diet.
People wonder how often they should check their iron. It is recommended to screen for iron deficiency in toddlers, teenagers and people with risk factors or signs of low iron. I also recommend vegetarians screen for low iron on a regular basis.
It is possible to use a fingerstick test rather than a blood draw to screen for anemia in children. However, sometimes we want more information, and we get a complete blood count and a test called ferritin or a test called the iron deficiency panel.
Check out the video on my YouTube channel where I talk about ferritin and anemia and iron deficiency.
-Dr. Joe
PS for people who are curious about their ferritin level, I do offer the ability to get your blood count and ferritin checked and interpreted for a one-time fee. Want more info: Text ‘check my ferritin’ to me at 541-600-2492.
Photo by Anton Maksimov 5642.su on Unsplash
first published Oct 1 2026
