What to watch with Ferritin Eisenmangel and Wechseljahre?

During menopause, ferritin and iron deficiency require careful monitoring. Menstruation stops, reducing iron loss, so ferritin often rises. However, symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and hair loss can stem from either iron deficiency or hormonal shifts. A blood test measuring ferritin, transferrin saturation, and hemoglobin is essential before self-supplementing. Over-supplementation (e.g., in undiagnosed hemochromatosis) can damage the liver. DNA tests for iron metabolism (e.g., HFE gene) exist, but most menopausal iron deficiency is not genetic—it's driven by diet, blood loss, or chronic inflammation. Evidence for routine genetic testing is weak. Focus on iron-rich foods (red meat, legumes, vitamin C for absorption) and medically supervised supplementation if needed. Caveat: ferritin is an acute-phase reactant; inflammation can falsely elevate it, so always check CRP.