Why Low Iron Doesn’t Always Mean You Need More Iron

Let’s talk about iron.

If you’ve been told you’re anemic or your ferritin is low, the go-to solution from most doctors is usually to take an iron supplement—or get an iron infusion.

But here’s the truth most women are never told:

Taking more iron is rarely the answer.

And let me tell you: iron is not simple. It’s nuanced, it’s messy, and it’s often misunderstood.

Here’s what you really need to know:

Most of the iron in your body is recycled.

True iron deficiency is rare, unless you’ve had significant blood loss (like surgery, trauma, or sometimes extremely heavy periods).

So, what’s going on when your ferritin looks low on labs?

Your body might not be deficient—it might just be hiding iron.

Inflammation, chronic infections, or underlying gut pathogens often trigger your body to sequester iron inside cells. It’s a protective mechanism—your body doesn’t want to feed potential invaders.

But here’s the kicker...

Supplementing with iron—especially IV iron—can make things worse.

Sure, your numbers might go up on paper, but that doesn’t mean you’re fixing the real issue. Iron can feed pathogens, create oxidative stress, and increase a form of unbound iron associated with cellular damage and chronic disease.

Instead of blindly throwing iron at the problem, we need to ask:

Why isn’t your body using the iron it already has?

The Real Root Causes of “Low Iron” Symptoms

Some of the most overlooked factors in iron utilization include:

  • Poor stomach acid (HCl) or sluggish digestion

  • Lack of cofactor nutrients—especially copper, zinc, and vitamin A (retinol)

  • Chronic inflammation or gut infections like Blastocystis hominis

  • Toxic burdens (like mercury, lead, or gadolinium)

  • Calcium excess or molybdenum deficiency

So yes—you might feel the effects of low iron: fatigue, breathlessness, brain fog, low stamina...

But simply taking iron might not fix the root cause—and in many cases, it can actually worsen things.

Iron Needs a Team to Work

Iron doesn’t work in isolation. It depends on a network of nutrients—especially copper and retinol-A—to be transported and utilized in the body. Without those key players, your iron might be present, but totally inactive.

It’s like having a warehouse full of supplies, but no trucks to move them.

Before You Supplement…

Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Low ferritin doesn’t always mean low iron

  • Inflammation and poor digestion can block iron transport

  • Iron supplements can feed gut bugs and cause oxidative stress

  • Copper and vitamin A play a vital role in iron metabolism

  • The real issue might be deeper—and fixable

What to Do Instead

If you’re confused by your labs, frustrated by fatigue, or unsure whether you really need iron—I’d love to help you sort through the noise.

Let’s get to the root cause of what’s draining your energy and address it properly.

Click here to book your free Discovery Call​

Let’s see if my approach is the right fit for you.

In Your Corner,​
​Karri

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Karri Ball