Understanding Low Ferritin Levels from Blood Donation
Blood donation is a noble and life-saving act. However, one of the potential side effects of frequent blood donation is the reduction in ferritin levels, which can have significant health implications. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body, and low ferritin levels indicate depleted iron stores. In this blog, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies for low ferritin levels due to blood donation. What is Ferritin? Ferritin is a blood protein that contains iron and is found in the liver, spleen, bone marrow, and muscles. It serves as the primary form of iron storage in the body, releasing iron when the body needs it. Adequate ferritin levels are crucial for maintaining overall health, as iron is a vital component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. How Blood Donation Affects Ferritin Levels Each blood donation removes about 200-250 milligrams of iron from the body. Whil