Blood Test: Ferritin (Iron)

Generally, guidance uses the lower limit of 20ug/L as the cut off for an abnormally low ferritin level. At Forth we like to go a little beyond the ‘normal’ to ensure health is optimised. If you speak to many doctors who deal with problems caused by low ferritin (Dermatologists, Sleep Consultants, Sports Medicine Doctors) the recommendation would be to try and achieve a level of around 100ug/L for optimal function. Due to the complexity and ubiquity of iron in multiple biological systems, this higher level means that your body has an adequate supply of iron for all its needs.

A once-daily iron supplement can be useful whilst endeavouring to increase the iron content of your diet (red meat, leafy green vegetables). If you elect to take an iron supplement then make sure you take it with a citrus fruit juice on an empty stomach to maximise absorption.

The first step is to understand why your ferritin levels are high, to make sure you take the right steps. You may need to change lifestyle factors such as diet and alcohol consumption.

There are two types of dietary iron: heme iron, found in animal products, and non-heme iron, found in plant and fortified foods.

Sources of heme iron include red meat, poultry and fish. Sources of non-heme iron include legumes, beans, fortified foods and leafy green vegetables.

The UK government recommends a daily iron intake of 4.7mg for male adults and 8mg for female adults[1]. However, women with heavier periods may need more iron. The maximum amount of iron that your body can absorb is around 60mg of elemental iron per day. Any more than this and your Hepcidin starts to inhibit iron transport across your gut wall.

[1]Department of Health: Dietary Reference Guidelines

We have partnered with Forth to offer insightful, doctor-reviewed at-home blood tests, analysed in NHS-accredited labs. After purchase, your test kit will be sent to you within 3–5 working days. Each kit includes a 'Lab Request Form' with an activation link and unique code. Log on to the website to activate your account, where you can provide relevant information about your health.

Providing as much detail as you feel comfortable is highly recommended, as it enables specialist doctors to deliver personalised and comprehensive analysis. For example, sharing whether you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing specific health conditions allows the doctors to tailor their insights to your circumstances.

Once you collect your sample, we strongly encourage you to activate your account before sending your blood samples and ensure they are sent back to the lab as soon as possible and within 24 hours, especially for the Menopause Blood Test. This helps guarantee the most accurate results. You will be notified as soon as your results are ready by email or text.

All our kits are sent out via Royal Mail first class post, so it should be with you within 3-5 working days.

We have a team of doctors and nurses who look at all results and will comment on any results that are outside of the normal range for your age.

The blood tests offered through Rheia Health London are provided by Forth, an independent third-party service. These tests are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Always consult a healthcare professional before making decisions based on your test results.

Rheia Health London facilitates access to blood tests provided by Forth. We do not process, analyse, or store any personal health information related to these tests. All sample collection, analysis, and results are handled solely by Forth, who operates under their own policies and procedures.

All personal data associated with these blood tests is managed exclusively by Forth in compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other applicable data protection laws. For more details, please refer to Forth’s privacy policy here.

Test results are reviewed by qualified medical professionals provided by Forth. These results should be interpreted in conjunction with advice from your healthcare provider. Rheia Health London does not provide medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment based on these results. Clients are responsible for consulting their healthcare provider for any medical decisions or follow-up care.

The results provided by Forth are based on the samples submitted and the testing methods used. Variations in results may occur due to factors such as sample quality, handling, or biological differences. For questions about the accuracy or interpretation of your results, please contact Forth.

Blood tests are available for clients aged 18 and over. Please ensure you meet the eligibility criteria before purchasing. Certain tests may not be suitable for individuals who are pregnant or have specific health conditions. Please consult with your healthcare provider before purchasing to ensure the test is suitable for your needs.

Sample collection kits are provided by Forth and must be returned promptly within the specified time frame to ensure accurate results. For questions about sample collection or kit delivery, please contact us or Forth directly.

These blood tests are not suitable for urgent or emergency medical situations. If you have immediate health concerns, please contact your healthcare provider or emergency services.

Rheia Health London accepts no liability for any adverse outcomes resulting from the use of blood tests provided by Forth or the interpretation of test results by clients. The responsibility for any health decisions made based on test results lies solely with the client in consultation with their healthcare provider.

Refunds for unused or incomplete tests are subject to Rheia Health London’s refund policy and may also depend on Forth’s terms and conditions. Please contact us for further assistance regarding refunds.

Blood testing services are currently available only in United Kingdom. Clients are responsible for ensuring the availability of services in their location before purchase.

Test results are typically provided within the stated number of days after the sample is received by Forth. Delays may occur due to unforeseen circumstances. Samples provided for testing are managed by Forth and are retained or disposed of in accordance with their internal policies. For further details, please contact Forth.

By purchasing a blood test through Rheia Health London, you acknowledge that you understand and agree to these terms. It is the client’s responsibility to ensure the suitability of the test for their needs and to consult a healthcare professional for further guidance.

Yes, you can download your results from your health dashboard as a PDF to share with your GP.